American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Statement on Newly Released Suicide Statistics

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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Sep 15, 2011, 11:45 ET

Suicide Rates Continue to Rise Among Middle Aged Men and Women

NEW YORK, Sept. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Recent statistics released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), show that suicide rates are up slightly for 2008 (the most recent year available). The current rate is 11.84, up from 11.7 in 2007. Suicide is now the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S., accounting for nearly 100 deaths per day.

The data show the suicide rates for middle age men and women (45-64-years-old) have continued to climb every year since 1998. This age group now has the highest suicide rate. The suicide rate among youth ages 15 to 24-years-old has remained statistically neutral. An encouraging trend is that the suicide rate among those over age 65 continues to gradually decline. This decrease may be attributed to better screening and treatment of depression and other mental illnesses among the elderly.

"While these rates are troubling, it is important to remember that most suicides are preventable," said Robert Gebbia, executive director of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. "We must take these most recent statistics as a national call to action to do more to prevent suicide such as encouraging people to get treatment."

"According to research more than 90 percent of people who die by suicide have a mental disorder at the time of their death. Early detection and vigorous treatment of illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, drug and alcohol abuse, and anxiety and eating disorders can reduce risk of suicide and save lives," continued Gebbia.

If you or someone you know is in crisis call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255). For information about suicide warning signs and risk factors or further advice on what to do if you fear someone you know is suicidal, visit www.afsp.org.

SOURCE American Foundation for Suicide Prevention