CDC Vital Signs: Suicide Rates Linked to Insurance, Internet Access & Income

Suicide rates in the United States are linked to community-level factors such as health insurance coverage, broadband internet access and household income, according to a new report released Tuesday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The findings, presented during a Vital Signs telebriefing, highlight the importance of addressing social and economic conditions to prevent suicide.

The report found that suicide rates were 26% lower in counties with the highest levels of health insurance coverage compared to those with the lowest. Counties where most households had broadband internet access saw suicide rates 44% lower, and those with the highest household incomes experienced 13% lower rates, according to Dr. Alison Cammack, lead author of the study and a Health Scientist on the CDC Suicide Prevention Team.

“Every suicide death is tragic, leaving behind devastated families, friends and communities,” said Dr. Debra Houry, CDC’s chief medical officer. “Every day, CDC invests in research and data that support reduce the risk of suicide. What we learn, we put into action by designing programs that can save lives and reduce suffering.”

The association between these factors and suicide rates was particularly strong among American Indian and Alaska Native people, with suicide rates in counties with the highest levels of health insurance, broadband access, and income being half the rate of those with the lowest levels. This disparity underscores the need for targeted interventions in these communities, researchers said.

The CDC’s approach to suicide prevention focuses on increasing factors that promote resilience and reducing those that increase risk, rather than solely focusing on crisis intervention. The agency funds programs in 28 sites across the US, as well as initiatives supporting tribes, veterans, and other vulnerable populations.

In 2022, more than 49,000 people died by suicide in the United States, with provisional data indicating a similar number in 2023. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-34, and rates remain disproportionately high among males, rural residents, American Indian and Alaska Native individuals, and those aged 45-64.

Dr. Cammack emphasized that access to health insurance can facilitate access to mental health and primary care services, while broadband internet connects individuals to prevention resources, job opportunities, and telehealth. Household financial resources are crucial for securing basic needs like food, housing, and healthcare.

The CDC has co-led the development of the 2024 national suicide prevention strategy, which aims to address underlying factors contributing to suicide risk, identify and support individuals at increased risk, prevent reattempts, promote long-term recovery, and provide support to those affected by suicide loss. The agency encourages recognizing warning signs such as expressions of hopelessness, isolation, changes in sleep patterns, and increased substance use.

Individuals struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide can contact the 988 Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7.