Summary
A study found that the suicide rate among young adults in the U.S. increased significantly from 2014 to 2024. The rates went up particularly among Black and Hispanic men, especially in Southern and Midwestern states. Some theories suggest social media, economic issues, and cultural barriers to mental health care as reasons for this trend.
Key Facts
- The suicide rate for U.S. adults aged 18-27 rose nearly 20% from 2014 to 2024.
- The rate increased from 13.8 per 100,000 people to 16.4 per 100,000 people.
- Significant increases were seen in Georgia (+65%), North Carolina (+41%), Texas (+41%), Alabama (+39%), and Ohio (+37%).
- The rate decreased in states like North Dakota (-39%), Vermont (-37%), and Delaware (-34%).
- Black and Hispanic men were most affected by the rise in suicide rates.
- Many experts suggest social media, economic problems, and reluctance to seek mental health help contribute to the increase.
- Firearms are now involved in most youth suicides, according to a report from Everytown.
- Mental health funding is at risk due to federal budget cuts under the Trump administration.
