Suicide Rates By State

Suicide represents an unsettling subject, yet a critical one to address in our efforts to protect the overall well-being of those within our communities. This deeply complex issue can be influenced by various factors, including psychological disorders, life situations, financial struggles, among other circumstances which can potentially lead to a state of hopelessness. Prompted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC for short, comprehensive data regarding the suicide rates of each state in the US has been compiled, forming a crucial basis for this in-depth examination. 

By looking closely at the suicide rate per 100,000 people in each state, we aim to shed light on trends, regional differences, and more importantly, the pressing need for interventions nationwide.

Key findings from the data include: 

• The suicide rate ranges significantly across U.S states, with New York reporting the highest figure of 32.3 per 100,000 people, and North Carolina noting the lowest rate of just 7.1 per 100,000 people.
• Generally, states with higher populations like New York and Indiana exhibit more elevated suicide rates, possibly due to a higher prevalence of stressors related to urban living, such as densely-populated environments or economic pressure. 
• Conversely, more sparsely populated states, including North Carolina and Iowa, appear to have lower suicide rates. This may, in part, be due to closer-knit social connections in smaller communities potentially offering better emotional support.
• Observably, states at both of these extremes show that suicide is a widespread issue that transcends geographical limitations, urging comprehensive nationwide efforts to prevent suicides.

Leading the pack is New York, with a suicide rate of 32.3 per 100,000 people. This underscores the reality that while New York is idolized as a dream destination, its occupants face a myriad of complex issues that may contribute to such a high suicide rate.

Following closely is Indiana, with a slightly lower but still deeply concerning suicide rate of 32 per 100,000 people. Further west, Alaska makes it as the third state with a high suicide rate, posting a figure of 30.8 per 100,000 residents.

Ohio comes in fourth with a suicide rate of 25 per 100,000 inhabitants. This is then followed by Delaware, which records a rate of 23.2. Colorado and Michigan also make it into the list with rates of 22.8 and 22.1 respectively. Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and New Mexico conclude our list of top 10 states with high suicide rates, reporting figures of 21.5, 20.8, and 20.6 per 100,000 folks respectively.

States with the Highest Suicide Rates (per 100K people):

1. New York - 32.3
2. Indiana - 32
3. Alaska - 30.8
4. Ohio - 25
5. Delaware - 23.2
6. Colorado - 22.8
7. Michigan - 22.1
8. Wisconsin - 21.5
9. Pennsylvania - 20.8
10. New Mexico - 20.6