Suicide rate way up for the first time in 30 years

According to new data from the National Centre for Health Statistics, suicide rates in the U.S. are up for the first time since 1986 — and not by a small percentage. Currently, the suicide rate is 13 per 100,000 people. In 2014, the most recent year the study included, 42,773 people in the U.S. committed suicide.

Since 1999, suicide rates are up in every single age group between the ages of 10 and 74, for both men and women. The greatest rise was seen in girls between the ages of 10 and 14. Suicide is one of the leading causes of teen and adolescent deaths.

This is sad news, but is important to talk about. Fifty percent of Americans with severe depression do not seek help, according to the National Institutes of Health. Depression and having suicidal thoughts can be isolating, but it is important for those experiencing this to know help is readily available and things can get better. It doesn’t have to be a hidden struggle.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for help.

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