In 2022, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that nearly 50,000 Americans died by suicide.
While suicide deaths had been declining in 2019 and 2020, there was a 5% increase in 2021. This trend continued in 2022, with a further 2.6% increase, bringing the total number of suicide deaths to 49,449.
Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy described mental health as the defining public health and societal challenge of our time. He emphasized the need for expanded access to mental health care and support to address the root causes of mental health struggles.
There was an alarming 8.1% rise in suicide deaths among adults aged 65 and older, reaching a total of 10,433 deaths. In contrast, children and young adults aged 10 to 24 saw an 8.4% decrease in suicide deaths, totaling 6,529 deaths. However, a CDC study published in June revealed a 62% increase in the suicide rate among this age group from 2007 to 2021.
Adults aged 24 to 44 had the highest number of suicide deaths, with 16,843 deaths. Although this represented a small increase of 0.7% compared to the previous year. Most racial and ethnic groups experienced an increase in suicide deaths, with the largest jump observed among Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders at 15.9%. However, American Indians or Alaska Natives saw a 6.1% decrease in suicide deaths.
In terms of gender, more men died by suicide than women, with both groups experiencing a respective 2.3% and 3.8% increase in suicide deaths in 2022.
Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra noted that nine in ten Americans believe the country is facing a mental health crisis. This sentiment is reflected in the data reported by the CDC. The consistent rise in suicide deaths since 2000, except for 2019 and 2020, highlights the urgent need for improved mental health resources and support.
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available via phone, text, or online chat. Additionally, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine offers mental health care resources and support.
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