In its latest report, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revealed that the rate of suicide in the United States hit an all-time high in 2018. The report found that the age-adjusted suicide rate rose to a staggering 14.2 deaths per 100,000 people, the highest it’s ever been.
The rise in suicide rates was highest among the middle-aged, especially those aged 45 to 64. These individuals saw a rate increase almost 50% in the last decade. The report also found that men are three times more likely than women to commit suicide, although the suicide rate for women also rose.
The report attributed the rise in suicides to a variety of factors, including financial stress, relationship problems, mental health issues, and substance abuse. It noted that suicide prevention measures were lacking in many areas and that more needs to be done to support people in need.
The tragic surge in suicide rates is warning that more should be done to help those in need. The CDC report noted that three-fourths of those who committed suicide did not have a diagnosed mental health issue. This is an indication that mental health screening and better access to mental health services should be increased.
In addition, better access to substance abuse treatment and support services should be provided so those who are struggling with substance abuse can seek help. Moreover, social services such as housing assistance and job training should be more widely available so those who are financially stressed can receive the support they need. These are just some of the measures that can be taken to help prevent more people from feeling so desperate as to take their own lives.
The news that the suicide rate in the U.S. reached an all-time high in 2018 is saddening. Recognizing the need to take action, it’s essential that more is done to prevent tragedies like this from happening in the future.
