Suicide rising across US; increased by almost 50 percent in Utah

Utah suicide rates increase by almost 50 percent

Suicide rates in Utah have increased by 46.5 percent, according to a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Utah has the fifth highest increase in suicide rates in the country.

Suicide is a leading cause of death in the US. Suicide rates increased in nearly every state from 1999 through 2016. Mental health conditions are often seen as the cause of suicide, but suicide is rarely caused by any single factor. In fact, many people who die by suicide are not known to have a diagnosed mental health condition at the time of death. Other problems often contribute to suicide, such as those related to relationships, substance use, physical health, and job, money, legal, or housing stress. Making sure government, public health, healthcare, employers, education, the media and community organizations are working together is important for preventing suicide. Public health departments can bring together these partners to focus on comprehensive state and community efforts with the greatest likelihood of preventing suicide. 

Read entire report.