THE subject of suicide is something that many people can feel uncomfortable talking or writing about.

But the startling figures showing that the rate of people taking their own life in St Helens is among the highest in the country means it is something that we, as a community, must confront and open up about.

As the report on the Star’s front page this week says, there were 28 deaths classed as suicide in the borough during 2017 and the statistics point to the number of recorded cases increasing this year.

There are a couple of initial areas where the spotlight needs to fall.

Firstly, is the level of mental health support available to people who are struggling enough?

The reaction of Star readers to this news – which we first reported online on Monday – has been heartening, with tremendous amounts of compassion and understanding evident. But a common theme from those responses is a call from the public for greater access to and support from mental health services.

That is something the town’s politicians and health leaders have a duty to examine and discuss. And if it is inadequate, we, as town, need to apply pressure to a Government and a Prime Minister, which have previously vowed to improve mental health support.

Secondly, what are the factors locally that are affecting this trend and what can be done?

Poverty, childhood trauma, alcohol and drug misuse, employment and financial problems are all highlighted by public health.

And the cases of suicide are also more prevalent among men, both young and middle-aged.

Historically, has St Helens’ background as a tough, gritty working class town left us with a culture where men don’t want to discuss how they feel? If so, can we campaign to break that cycle and can public compassion – so evident in the responses to tragedy that has rocked the town – help influence change?

There is good work going on out there – the council has a number of campaigns running that are trying to make a difference.

But it’s clear more needs to be done and we’d welcome suggestions from Star readers, charities and organisations about the messages we can convey to influence change.