Provisional Suicide deaths Rose in 2022, Reaching Highest Number Ever Recorded
ATLANTA, GA – Provisional data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals a record high in suicide deaths in the United States in 2022, with 49,449 deaths reported – the highest number ever recorded. This represents a 3.4% increase from the 47,872 deaths recorded in 2021.
The CDC’s Comprehensive Suicide Prevention Program (CSP) currently funds 24 programs nationwide, focusing on a comprehensive public health approach to suicide prevention, particularly within populations disproportionately affected. Resources like the CDC’s Suicide Prevention Resource for Action provide evidence-based strategies for states and communities.
While overall numbers increased, rates varied across demographics.Suicide rates increased significantly among young adults aged 10-24, with a 12.4% rise.
Recognizing the critical need for intervention, the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline recommend five key steps to support individuals at risk:
- Ask: Directly inquiring about suicidal thoughts can be helpful, possibly reducing suicidal ideation.
- Help keep them safe: Reducing access to lethal means is a vital prevention strategy.
- Be there: Increasing social connectedness and reducing isolation are protective factors.
- Help them connect: Calls to the 988 Lifeline demonstrate a significant positive impact, with callers reporting reduced feelings of depression, suicidal ideation, and overwhelm, alongside increased hope.
- Follow up: Continued support and check-ins can reinforce feelings of connectedness and reduce risk.
Individuals experiencing a crisis or those concerned about someone else can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or by chatting online at 988lifeline.org. Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7/365.
Further facts on suicide data and CDC prevention efforts can be found at Suicide Data and Statistics | Suicide | CDC.
To learn more about communicating with someone who may be suicidal, visit https://www.bethe1to.com/ and https://www.bethe1to.com/join/.
