New data from the National Center for Health Statistics reveals a concerning rise in suicide rates from 2020 to 2022, with firearms emerging as the most common method. The report, released Thursday, highlights that suicide was the 11th leading cause of death across all ages in the U.S. in 2022, with certain age groups facing even higher risks.
Among people aged 10 to 14 and 20 to 34, suicide was the second leading cause of death. For those between 15 to 19, it ranked as the third leading cause. Despite the age-adjusted suicide rate declining between 2018 and 2020, the rate in 2022 matched that of 2018, marking the highest age-adjusted suicide rate in the U.S. since 1941.
The report also examined trends across sex and the methods of suicide. From 2020 to 2022, suicide rates increased for women aged 25 and older, while rates for boys aged 10 to 14 and 15 to 24 saw a decrease. However, older age groups experienced a general increase. Notably, males continued to have suicide rates three to four times higher than females during this period.
Firearms were the leading method of suicide for both males and females in 2022, with rates increasing since 2006 and 2007, respectively. Previously, between 2002 and 2015, poisoning was the leading method of suicide among females. The report also noted a slight decrease in suffocation-related suicides for both sexes from 2020 to 2022.
If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, help is available. You can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or by chatting online. Additionally, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine offers support Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET, at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), or by emailing [email protected].
This is really important information for anybody you may feel is in danger, too.
The increase in suicide rates, particularly through firearm use, underscores the ongoing need for mental health support and intervention.
