Focus on Mental Health in America
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States. It is defined as causing “injuring oneself with the intent to die.” Suicide rates increased across the U.S. by 30% between 2000 and 2018 before declining over the next two years.
In 2020, nearly 46,000 people took their own lives. This means that someone died by suicide approximately every 11 minutes. In addition to those that committed suicide, millions of people reported suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide.
Suicide Rates by Age
As noted by the CDC, suicide was one of the “top 9 leading causes of death” for individuals between the ages of 10 and 64. It was the 2nd leading cause of death for individuals between the ages of 10-14 and 25-34. Suicide rates seem to be increasing among children, teens, and young adults.
Individuals with Higher Suicide Rates
It is not only age that seems to be a factor in higher suicide rates. Other groups are more prone to suicide, suicidal thoughts, and suicide attempts. Factors that may increase the risk for suicide may include things like child abuse, sexual abuse, housing instability, financial insecurity, access to quality health care, violence, and more.
According to the CDC, these groups have higher suicide rates compared to the general population:
- Non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaskan Native
- Non-Hispanic White
- Veterans
- Individuals who reside in rural areas
- Miners
- Construction workers
- Individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual
It is important for individuals who are contemplating suicide to seek treatment. Mental health disorders are common with millions of Americans reporting mental health struggles each year. Treatment can help prevent suicide among people of all ages, ethnicities, and income levels.