America finds itself in the midst of an aging society, presenting unique challenges and concerns. Startling data recently released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that nearly 50,000 Americans lost their lives to suicide last year alone, indicating the highest suicide rate seen since World War II. What is especially concerning is the 8% increase in suicides among Americans aged 65 and older and a 7% increase among those aged 45 to 64. These statistics are significant when considering that the median age in our country is currently 38.9 and rising.
The CDC further reports that men account for 80% of suicides, with white men in particular exhibiting alarmingly high rates. Additionally, it is worth noting that suicide rates are highest in rural areas, referred to as “micropolitan” and “non-core” regions, where population densities are lowest. The suicide levels in these areas are recorded at 19.2 and 21.7 per 100,000 people respectively.
Occupationally, there are notable differences as well. The mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction industries demonstrate the highest suicide rate at 54.2 per 100,000 men, followed closely by the construction industry at 45.3. Another concerning statistic is that veterans have a 57.3% higher suicide rate compared to the average for other Americans.
When considering the magnitude of the issue, it is shocking to realize that the number of suicides last year surpasses the combined number of American casualties during the Korean War and those who died in action during the Vietnam War. Suicide has unquestionably become one of our nation’s most formidable enemies.
The causes of this epidemic vary from case to case, with some being unique, while others are rooted in our culture as a whole. Historically, Christianity has consistently discouraged suicide, labeling it a mortal sin, while offering the promise of a new life even to those suffering immensely on Earth. However, as our culture has evolved, Christian teachings have become less influential. The taboo surrounding suicide has weakened, with millions now believing that there is no life beyond the struggles of divorce, unemployment, addiction, dishonor, sickness, and pain experienced in the present.
Modern medicine, while providing many blessings, also presents challenges. Advances that allow the elderly and seriously ill to live longer come at a considerable cost. Many individuals who have lived independent lives fear ending up sustained by machines. Furthermore, the opioid crisis has created additional despair. The restricted access to prescription pain medication leaves some Americans in agonizing pain, feeling trapped with no escape, while others who have become dependent on these drugs see no future beyond them.
Unfortunately, the main victims of suicide form a group that often receives little sympathy. Rural white individuals, men with blue-collar or military backgrounds, and older working-class whites are frequently overlooked by the highly educated elite who champion diversity and dismiss the significance of the industrial economy. This dismissive attitude towards these individuals often leads them to feel like hurdles hindering progress. Their response, manifested in voting patterns that support populist candidates like Donald Trump, reinforces the condescending views held by the educated liberal elite.
The old American left emphasized solidarity and mutual aid, leading to the creation of entitlement programs designed to provide for the material needs of the old and unemployed. However, as the ratio of dependents to workers steadily rises, these programs face challenges. Today’s left, in contrast, prioritizes diversity over solidarity and places moral purity based on identity politics above traditional economic class.
The emerging America of the 21st century presents a society that is not only more diverse but also more alienated. Common religious and civilizational bonds are fading away, and a sense of representation by institutions, government, and the media is diminishing. This cultural shift, coupled with an ever-increasing disconnection between the young and old generations, has resulted in the rise of suicide.
While we should resist the inclination to attribute this issue solely to partisan politics, it is crucial to acknowledge that our culture and economy have transitioned away from the values that once provided meaning and purpose to Americans’ lives. Tens of thousands of our countrymen find themselves lost and desperate for an escape, creating a somber reality that America is now a worse place due to the tragic loss of 50,000 individuals to suicide last year.
It is imperative that we address this issue urgently and proactively. The next 50,000 individuals at risk of suicide need to be made aware of the importance of their lives before it’s too late. As a nation, we must come together, recognize the inherent value of every individual, and provide the necessary support and resources to combat this devastating epidemic. Only then can we hope to preserve and protect the well-being of all Americans.
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