The epidemic of male suicide can’t be neatly summarised with a slogan or a few kind words. No, it isn’t caused by “the patriarchy”, “toxic masculinity”, or a single issue like “men not talking”. In fact, despite suicide being front and centre in so many mental health campaigns and awareness days, the lived experience of suicidal men suggests it isn’t primarily about mental illness either. The author of suicide, is pain. Immense, seemingly interminable pain that someone is trying to escape. Recent research by the APPG on Issues Affecting Men and Boys found that many men come to see suicide as “a rational decision and a solution-based outcome”. Whilst I understand such a heart-wrenching perspective, “a solution” it is not. That said, research like this brings valuable new perspectives to the conversation, ones that take suicide out of men’s heads and examine its structural, environmental, relational, political and economic roots. And so, I’d like to talk to you about a concept I never hear discussed. Something that could be one of the biggest predictors of suicide of all… “Psychache”. A phenomenon coined by history’s greatest expert on suicide, and founder of the field of suicidology itself, the late legendary psychologist, Edwin Shneidman… What do you think? ~ If you’re struggling, you can call Samaritans free, any time, on 116 123 (UK). APPG Male suicide, a new ‘whole system’ approach https://equi-law.uk/inquiry-no-3-male-suicide/

2026-10-07