As the 11th leading cause of death in the U.S., suicide is a tragedy that affects all of us, whether directly or indirectly. An average of 135 people die by suicide every day, which is about one death every 15 minutes. But there are steps you can take. Learn prevention strategies that support people in their most challenging moments, bringing hope and saving lives.
People of every age, gender, race, and ethnicity are at risk for attempting or dying by suicide, but due to health disparities for minorities, some groups have higher rates. For some, the increased risk of suicide is related to their racial or ethnic identity, and for others the risk is related to an acquired identity, such as being a veteran. Suicide risk increases with age, with adults over age 75 comprising the highest rates of suicide. The highest U.S. rate of suicide deaths by ethnicity is among American Indians and Alaskan Natives, at 16.11 per 100,000, compared with white individuals at 15.83 per 100,000. Keep reading to learn more about how you can support communities disproportionately affected by suicide.
Groups at Higher Risk
Certain life circumstances raise an individual’s risk for suicide. For example, racism, discrimination, poverty, unemployment, housing instability, and barriers to access physical or mental healthcare all increase suicide risk. Learn more about high-risk groups — and the resources available to help.
Veterans
Those who have served in the armed forces face a variety of challenges when returning to civilian life. Veterans experience struggles including financial instability, high rates of homelessness, mental health challenges, and high rates of post-traumatic stress disorder. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among veterans under age 45. Firearms are the most lethal suicide method; veterans who attempt suicide are more likely to use firearms than are nonveterans (71% versus 50.3%). Here are some resources that can offer support in a moment of crisis:
- Veterans Crisis Line – Open to all veterans, regardless of whether they’re enrolled in care at a Veterans Affairs medical center, this 24/7 crisis resource is part of the National Suicide Hotline (988).
- Taps.org – Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors is a 24/7 resource with crisis support as well as ongoing counseling for military families.
- Military One Source – A resource from the Defense Department, this site provides 24/7 crisis support as well as financial, relationship, education, food, and housing education and support.
Indigenous Populations
Individuals who identify as Alaskan Native, Native American, or a member of another indigenous group are at a higher risk for suicide. The suicide rate for this group rose by 27% in 2022. This increase can be attributed to the contemporary and historical health disparities experienced by indigenous populations and the continued racism, discrimination, and long-term effects of colonialism. In addition to barriers to physical healthcare, mental health resources are also scarce in indigenous communities, with lack of insurance, transportation, childcare, and employment flexibility affecting individuals’ ability to seek mental health support. Resources well-suited to support indigenous populations include:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – A valuable resource hub with links to affirming resources for indigenous people.
- Suicide Prevention Resource Center – Suicide prevention is most effective when it’s culturally relevant and affirming. Check out the resources here for links and further education.
- Zero Suicide – Featuring videos, tools, readings, and other resources, the Zero Suicide Institute has a robust collection of information to support suicide prevention in indigenous communities.
LGBTQIA+ Youth
Young adults who are experiencing isolation, harassment, and violence because of their identity are at higher risk for suicide. A 2022 study from The Trevor Project showed that 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide; LGBTQ youth living in an affirming community reported significantly lower rates of attempted suicide. While discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals persists into adulthood, youth often struggle to find accepting spaces. These resources speak directly to LGBTQIA+ youth:
- The Trevor Project – Dedicated to ending suicide among LGBTQ+ youth, this essential organization offers 24/7 support and robust resources, education, social connections, and data.
- American Medical Association – Providing education to physicians and other healthcare providers on challenges facing LGBTQ+ youth, this hub offers links for learning about affirming care.
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs a vetted list of resources, check out this page for links, phone numbers, support services, and LGBTQ organizations.
People with Disabilities
One way we can all decrease stigma every day is to use person-first language when referencing identity. Instead of using “the disabled” as a noun, describe an individual as a “person with a disability,” “a person who uses a wheelchair,” or “a person with an intellectual disability.” This language reflects the fact that the person and disability are not one in the same and that the person is more than their disability.
People with disabilities can be more vulnerable to mental health challenges, especially if they become disabled due to accidents, illnesses, or chronic conditions. People with disabilities may struggle with receiving appropriate accommodations, discrimination, social isolation, and the stress associated with managing a disability or chronic health condition. Here are resources specifically designed to support people with disabilities:
- Suicide Prevention Resource Center – Links for news and manuals on offering support to individuals with disabilities related to suicide and mental health
- Disability Rights Florida – In addition to suicide crisis resources, this site provides information and directories for better understanding mental health policies and resources.
- Resource for Education, Advocacy, Communication, and Housing (REACH) – REACH offers support services to individuals with disabilities so they can live more independently and communicate more effectively in their communities.
What You Can Do as A…
When it comes to suicide prevention, you may feel at a loss for how to help. The high stakes of “messing up” if someone is suicidal may make you apprehensive about getting involved. However, data shows that explicitly asking about suicide doesn’t cause suicide and is a powerful prevention tool. Depending on your professional role, you may be held to certain standards related to suicide prevention.
Healthcare Professional
As a healthcare provider, you are a mandated reporter if an individual reports an intent to harm themselves or another person. This means you must escalate their report to emergency resources, starting with 988. Some professionals such as nurses have the most frequent contact with patients who may disclose suicidal thoughts. Healthcare professionals experience suicidal ideation as well, due to compassion fatigue and other stressors. You may find that you need to support a colleague with help in identifying mental health resources.
Educator
Educators are also mandated reporters for students of all ages. If a student, colleague, or individual confides that they are having thoughts of suicide, you are required to report their risk of harm, even if the disclosure falls outside of your immediate work environment. Educators should seek suicide prevention training and share resources with the community.
Family Member
If a family member or loved one discloses that they are having suicidal thoughts, get help immediately from crisis support. Call or text 988 to engage with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or text 741741 for the Crisis Text Line. Staffers can help you triage the situation, direct you toward care, or engage mobile crisis support.
Friend
As a friend, it’s hard to know what to do about a loved one’s suicidal thoughts or intent. Always err on the side of safety and contact crisis support by calling or texting 988 or contact the Crisis Text Line at 741741. Learning more about recognizing signs of suicide helps you act as a supportive —and crucial — friend.
