Suicide Rates in the United States Reach Record High in 2022
According to provisional data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more people died from suicide in the United States last year than in any other year on record. The data reveals that at least 49,449 lives were lost due to intentional self-harm in 2022, which translates to nearly 15 deaths for every 100,000 people.
The suicide rate had been declining for two years before experiencing a significant spike in 2021. Unfortunately, the trend continued in 2022, surpassing the previous record set in 2018. Last year’s suicide rate of 14.9 deaths for every 100,000 people is 5% higher than the previous record of 14.2 deaths for every 100,000 people in 2018, marking a 10% increase over the two-year period.
The CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics compiles data reported by states and other jurisdictions into the National Vital Statistics System each month. The latest update, published on Thursday, represents a set of provisional data for 2022, with the final data expected to be available later in the year.
Suicide rose to become the 11th leading cause of death in 2021, and the provisional data for 2022 shows a continuation of this trend. It now falls just below chronic liver disease and above influenza and pneumonia in terms of leading causes of death.
The provisional data also reveals that firearms were involved in more than half of all suicides in 2022. A separate report published by the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions in June found that gun-related suicides were the driving factor behind the recent rise in suicide rates. Between 2019 and 2021, the rate of suicides involving guns rose by 10%, while the rate for suicides not involving guns actually dropped by 8% during the same period.
The report from Johns Hopkins also highlighted that white men, particularly those aged 75 and older, were most at risk of gun suicide in 2021.
Last month marked the first anniversary of the launch of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which replaced the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline with a simpler three-digit dial code, 988. This change was intended to make it easier for individuals to remember, similar to the emergency medical services number, 911.
Since its launch, nearly 5 million calls, texts, and online chat messages have been answered through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Approximately one-fifth of these contacts were linked to the Veterans Crisis Line, which can be reached by dialing 988 and selecting option 1 for military members, veterans, and their families.
However, despite the availability of this lifeline, the majority of adults in the US are unaware that they can call, text, or chat online with licensed counselors trained to de-escalate crises, provide emotional support, or connect them with additional mental health resources. A recent poll released by the National Alliance on Mental Illness revealed that more than 80% of adults were either unfamiliar with or had never heard of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
As the demand for mental health support continues to rise, there is a pressing need for more crisis counselors. A survey conducted by CNN in partnership with the Kaiser Family Foundation found that nine out of 10 adults in the US believe the country is experiencing a mental health crisis.
The survey also highlighted that more than one in five adults described their own mental health as only “fair” or “poor,” with higher proportions among adults under the age of 30, those who identify as LGBT, and individuals with an annual income of less than $40,000. Additionally, a third of all adults reported feeling anxious always or often over the past year, with more than half of LGBT adults and those under 30 experiencing this level of anxiety. Approximately one in five adults said they were often or always depressed or lonely during the same period.
As the nation grapples with these alarming statistics, it is crucial to raise awareness about available mental health resources, such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and to prioritize the expansion of crisis counseling services to meet the growing demand.
What measures are being taken to ensure that the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is accessible and affordable for individuals seeking help during times of crisis
Ough the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The service has seen a significant increase in usage over the past year as more people seek help during times of crisis.
While the rise in suicide rates is alarming, experts believe that it is a result of various factors, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, social isolation, economic hardships, and mental health issues. The stress and uncertainty brought about by these issues have taken a toll on people’s mental well-being, leading to an increase in suicidal ideation and attempts.
Health officials and mental health advocates are urging individuals to prioritize their mental health and seek help if needed. It is crucial for communities to come together to provide support and resources for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. Accessible and affordable mental health services, along with increased awareness and education, are essential in reducing suicide rates and saving lives.
The CDC continues to monitor and gather data on suicide rates to better understand the underlying causes and develop effective prevention strategies. It is hoped that with increased awareness and support, the country can reverse the current trend and reduce suicide rates in the years to come.
This is a heartbreaking reality that demands our immediate attention and action. Our society needs to prioritize mental health support and resources to help combat this crisis.
It’s heartbreaking to see the toll this crisis is taking on individuals and families. We need to come together as a society to create better support systems and reduce the stigma around mental health.