Tuesday, September 24 | Thought Leadership, Cause Connected
3 Uplifting Trends in Suicide Prevention: Hope Prevails
By Liz Thiel, VP, Human Resources
As America observes Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the recent progress care providers, counselors and individuals have made in saving the lives of others.
Suicide remains a significant public health challenge in America, claiming nearly 50,000 lives in 2022, the most recent year officially reported by the CDC. However, there are many positive signs that intervention and prevention efforts are making an impact. Recent statistics reveal that while there is still work to be done in the areas of mental health and prevention, meaningful strides are being made toward reducing suicide rates and improving mental health in America.
A Decline in Youth Suicidal Behavior
Based on national CDC mortality data, in 2022, suicide rates among adolescents and young adults decreased by 10%.
One of the more hopeful trends comes from the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), which tracks adolescent mental health and behavior over time. The survey shows a decline in certain troubling indicators among young people, a key demographic often at higher risk of suicide attempts.
Some key findings:
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Female students who seriously considered attempting suicide decreased from 30% in 2021 to 27% in 2023.
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Hispanic students who made a suicide plan saw a decline from 19% to 16%.
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Black students who attempted suicide dropped from 14% to 10%.
These shifts, while incremental, underscore the value of targeted suicide prevention programs, such as school-based mental health resources and community-led support initiatives. Efforts to increase social connections and reduce stigma around mental health have also contributed to these positive outcomes. Schools are playing a particularly significant role in supporting students’ wellbeing through educational programs and crisis intervention.
SOURCE: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-suicide-prevention-day/world-suicide-prevention-day-2024
Improved Crisis Support Systems
The expansion of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline marks a critical development in suicide prevention. Since its inception, the lifeline has fielded more than 10 million calls, texts and chats from individuals in crisis. The service provides an accessible, 24/7 avenue for people in need to connect with trained counselors, helping to diffuse crises and prevent suicide attempts.
Supported by the Biden-Harris Administration’s significant investment in mental health resources, the lifeline’s reach continues to grow. Expanded language options, specific services for veterans and targeted support for LGBTQ+ youth have ensured that more individuals can reach the help they need when it matters most. As awareness of the 988 Lifeline increases, its ability to intervene early and effectively will continue to save lives.
Changing the Narrative on Suicide
The theme for 2024’s World Suicide Prevention Day, "Changing the Narrative on Suicide," underscores the move toward open, honest conversations about mental health. Historically, stigma and silence have created barriers to seeking help. However, new initiatives focus on encouraging dialogue and understanding, fostering environments where individuals feel safe discussing mental health challenges. By creating a community for conversation, this reduces isolation and empowers those at risk to seek help.
SOURCE: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-suicide-prevention-day/world-suicide-prevention-day-2024
This narrative shift is being championed not only by advocacy groups but also by public policy. The 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention emphasizes a comprehensive, whole-of-society approach to suicide prevention, with a focus on marginalized communities. For the first time, the strategy prioritizes equity, recognizing that disproportionate suicide rates among certain populations require tailored interventions.
A Collective Responsibility
While these statistics offer hope, they also serve as a reminder that suicide prevention is a collective obligation. Every conversation, act of kindness and shared resource can save a life. Healthcare providers, educators and administrators play pivotal roles in creating supportive systems, but the responsibility extends to all of us.
Together, we can continue to build a society where no one feels alone in their darkest moments. By highlighting these positive trends and supporting ongoing initiatives, we take important steps toward a future where suicide is preventable and mental health is prioritized for all.
Find Support for a Friend or Loved One
If you or someone you know needs support— call, text or chat with a 988 Lifeline counselor. They are available anytime, day or night, to provide help during difficult times. Remember, you are not alone; there is always hope and help available.
Meet the Author
Liz
Thiel
· VP, Human Resources
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