mental health disorders
Suicidal Behavior
Suicide rates in the United States
In the United States, more than 48,000 people completed suicides in 2021. On average, there are about 132 suicides each day. Suicide typically ranks among the top 10 causes of death among people aged 10 to 14 and 25 to 34 years. In 2020 suicide declined to 11th place as an overall cause of death because of the large number of deaths caused by COVID-19. In 2021, the rate of suicide was highest in middle-aged White men, accounting for almost 70 percent of deaths. Firearms accounted for over half of all suicide deaths. The age ranges with higher suicide rates were adults ages 25 to 34 and 75 to 84, but were highest among adults older than 85. In all age groups, males who die by suicide outnumber females almost 4 to 1. The reasons are unclear, but the following may be involved: Males tend to be more aggressive and use more lethal means when they attempt suicide. Males have been taught to be stoic when faced with problems and are traditionally less likely to seek help—from friends and/or health care practitioners. Alcohol Use and The number of suicides in men includes suicides in the military and among veterans. Both groups have a higher proportion of males to females. In 2021, the suicide rate was highest among non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaskan native people. For the most current statistics on suicide, see the data collected by theAmerican Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The rate of suicide is highest among white middle-aged males. Males are 4 times more likely to take their lives than females. For every person who dies by suicide, there are many more who attempt it. 