US suicides remain at highest level in nation’s history

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FILE-Walk participants sign the "Why We Walk" wall during American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk at Montrose Harbor on October 21, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Barry Brecheisen/Getty Images for America

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Suicide rates in the U.S. in 2023 remain at the highest level in the country’s history. 

More than 49,300 suicide deaths were reported last year, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Associated Press reports this number could increase as some death investigations conclude and are reported. 

In 2022, a little under 49,500 suicides were reported, with 55% of all suicide deaths that year involving guns, according to CDC data.

RELATED: More American soldiers are dying by suicide than combat

The CDC’s report Thursday offers the following details about suicides:

• Suicide was the second leading cause of death for people ages 10–14 and 20–34, and the third leading cause for people ages 15–19.
• Deaths continue to be more common among boys and men than girls and women. The highest suicide rate for any group — by far — was in men ages 75 and older, at about 44 suicides per 100,000 men that age.
• Among women, the highest suicide rate was in those who were middle-aged, about 9 per 100,000. But increases in suicides were discovered with teens and young women, with the rate for that group doubling in the last 20 years.
• The overall suicide rate in 2022 and 2023 was 14.2 per 100,000. It also was that high in 2018. Before then, it had not been that high since 1941.

RELATED: US suicide rate reached highest number ever last year

In the U.S., suicide was the 11th leading cause of death in 2022, but experts tell the AP that it is complicated, and suicide attempts can be influenced by factors like higher rates of depression, a limited availability of mental health services, and the availability of guns. 

Editor's Note: If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lineline for free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

CLICK HERE for the warning signs and risk factors of suicide and CLICK HERE  for more on the 988 Lifeline.