Suicide Rates on the Rise in Nearly Every State, Says New CDC Report

Suicide rates have increased significantly in the US since 1999, according to a new report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Using data from the National Vital Statistics System, the CDC researchers examined trends in age-adjusted suicide rates in individuals 10 years of age and older, by state and sex, across 6 consecutive 3-year periods (1999–2016). They also investigated contributing circumstances among suicide decedents with and without known mental health conditions using data from the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) which covered 27 states in 2015.

Results showed that suicide rates increased by >30% in 25 states during the study period; nearly all states (44) were found to have significant increases. More than half of suicide decedents (54%) did not have a known mental health condition based on NVDRS data. Circumstances contributing to suicide included relationship problems/loss, substance use disorders, health problems, and job or financial issues. 

“Suicide is a leading cause of death for Americans – and it’s a tragedy for families and communities across the country,” said CDC Principal Deputy Director Anne Schuchat, MD, “From individuals and communities to employers and healthcare professionals, everyone can play a role in efforts to help save lives and reverse this troubling rise in suicide.” The release of the CDC’s Vital Signs report occurred in a week where two prominent figures, fashion designer Kate Spade and chef and television presenter Anthony Bourdain, both were reported to have died from suicide.

For more information visit CDC.gov.

This article originally appeared on MPR