A total of 23,148 people contacted the Flemish Suicide Hotline 1813 last year, according to the organisation's annual report released on Monday.
Most callers reported feeling lonely (35%) and misunderstood (33%). Mood disorders (20.4%), problems with parents (17.9%), and relationship breakups (13.1%) were also frequently discussed.
In Flanders, an average of three people die by suicide every day, with many more attempting or struggling with suicidal thoughts. The Centre for Suicide Prevention (CSP), which operates Suicide Hotline 1813, aims to support individuals in crisis and promote suicide prevention.
Most callers to Suicide Hotline 1813 contact the service for themselves, with 88.3% via phone, 91.6% via chat, and 85.5% via email. In 2024, phone calls lasted an average of 26 minutes, while chat conversations averaged 59 minutes.
To meet the increasing number of calls, the CSP plans to organise eight training sessions in 2025 to introduce new volunteers and provide support to as many people as possible.
Flemish Minister of Welfare Caroline Gennez emphasised the importance of Suicide Hotline 1813. "It is incredibly important that people struggling with dark thoughts or who are concerned about someone have a place to turn with their questions and feelings. Volunteers at Suicide Hotline 1813 offer a judgement-free space for people to share their stories in complete confidentiality."
Suicide Hotline 1813 is manned by professionally trained volunteers, as well as students and interns undergoing intensive training as part of their studies.
Do you need help?
Those in need of a listening ear or with any questions about violence and abuse can contact the helpline anonymously on the toll-free number 1712 every weekday
The call is free of charge and is anonymous. It will also not appear on your phone bill.
If you need urgent assistance, call 101 for urgent police assistance or 112 for urgent medical assistance.
Find the English-language 1712 website here.
