U.S. suicide rates

U.S. suicide rates

By @Gianna-B

May 31, 2023

The United States' suicide rate from 1950 to 2018

The constantly increasing suicide rates in the US have been a major issue. It caused the deaths of numerous well-known individuals, including Alexander McQueen, Sean O'Haire, the famed Avicii (who was not an American).

Since 2005, there have been an average of 10.9 suicide deaths per 100,000 persons in the United States. In 2018, there were approximately 14.2 suicide deaths per 100,000 individuals, an increase of more than 30%.

American suicide rates by race and gender

White people have an average suicide rate that is one point higher than the national average (13.6 deaths per 100k) when compared to other racial groups.

The lowest suicide rates were found among black people, who had about 6.4 fatalities per 100,000 persons.

Suicide is 3.9 times more likely to occur in men than in women. The graphic below illustrates the dominance of male suicide rates across all racial groups.

Suicide rate by denomination of age

This study also shows that age increases one's chance of suicide. The elderly (those above the age of 85) end their life at a higher rate than other age groups.

Unsurprisingly, the lowest suicide rates in the United States are among youngsters aged 10 to 14.

What red flags am I to watch out for?

According to research, persons who score lower on extroversion, particularly those who score higher on neuroticism, are more likely to have suicidal thoughts or actions.

1. People may express their desire to end their lives, lack of hope, or even doubt the purpose of their existence directly or indirectly.

2. Suicidal individuals may regularly avoid social settings and other activities. They might distance themselves from family.

3. Suicidal individuals occasionally dispose of their assets in advance of their passing.

4. A sudden increase in drug or alcohol use may indicate depression or emotional stress.

Suicide Prevention Techniques

Encourage open, nonjudgmental communication among individuals because sometimes the person who appears to be the most lively in a room is actually the most depressed, and it may be challenging to spot any suicidal symptoms. People typically assume they are right and dislike criticism because we are emotional beings and our emotions influence every decision we make.

People are less likely to open up to you when you frequently criticize them, and as a result, you may be unaware that your friend or associate is secretly depressed or considering suicide.

To foster a safe environment, lessen your propensity to condemn or criticize your family and friends.

Encourage people who are having mental health problems to contact the church, a therapist, or a counsellor for assistance.

Be proactive and don't be afraid to ask for help if you think someone is thinking of taking their own life.

Thank you for your time, check a friend and save a life.

Lead image was taken from unsplash free images