This spring, the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) released an overview of mortality data related to suicide in the United States during the years 2000 to 2020. This data was collected from the National Vital Statistics System.

Since 2000, the age-adjusted suicide mortality rate increased until it hit a peak in 2018. A five percent decline in mortality from the peak rate was reported in 2020. While this decline in suicide mortality is encouraging, one should also review the data provided in this report for certain demographic characteristics.

For example, suicide mortality was greater in males than females, and females younger than age 25 saw an increase in mortality when other age groups had recent declines in mortality. For additional details related to demographic characteristics as well as cause of death, read the full report.

Readers are encouraged to visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website to learn about the signs and risk factors for suicide. The website also has resources should you or someone you know be having thoughts about suicide.

Reference

Garnett M, Curtin S, Stone D. (2022) Suicide mortality in the United States, 2000–2020. NCHS Data Brief, no 433. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. cdc:114217.

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