Suicide Facts

From the CDC:

Men:

Suicide is the 8th leading cause of death of all U.S. men. 

Males are four times more likely to die from suicide than females.

Suicide rates are highest among whites and second highest among Native American and Native Alaskan men.

Of the 24,672 suicide deaths reported among men in 2001, 60% involved use of a firearm.

Women:

Women report attempting suicide during their lifetime about  3 times as often as men.

Young people:

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people aged 15 to 24. 

Of the total number of suicides among ages 15 to 24 in 2001, 86% were male and 14% were female.

American Indian and Alaskan Natives have the highest rate of suicide in the 15 to 24 age group. 

In 2001, firearms were used in 54% of youth suicide. 

The Elderly:

Suicide rates increase with age and are very high among those 65 years and older.  Most elderly suicide fictims are seen by their primary care provider a few weeks prior to their suicide attempt and diagnosed with their first episode of mild to moderate depression.  Older adults who are suicidal are also more likely to be suffering from physical illnesses and be divorced or widowed.

In 2001, 5,393 Americans over the age of 65 committed suicide.  Of those, 85% were men and 15% were women.

Firearms were used in 73% of suicides committed by adults over the age of 65 in 2001. 

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If you're contemplating suicide or know someone who is, get help.  See a doctor.  Depression is a treatable disease.   80% of people that seek treatment for depression are treated successfully.