The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released provisional data indicating that more people have died by suicide in 2022 than ever before. The data shows that approximately 49,449 people died by suicide in 2022 – which is nearly 15 deaths for every 100,000 people.  

“The provisional 2022 suicide data recently shared by the CDC is concerning which is why our work is so vital,” said Leeann Sherman, MPS, CAE, President & CEO of AAS. “It is important to note that while we saw a decrease just a few years ago, we have now seen a significant increase which means we need to increase the focus on mental health and wellbeing, provide pre and postvention care, and ensure all Americans are aware of the chat/text/call of 988. A recent study found 82% of US residents were unaware of 988 which means we all can do more.  As the final data is released by the CDC in the coming months, we will review and work with researchers, legislators, partners, clinicians, communities, and those with lived experience to break the stigma and provide various tools, resources, and education along with a continuum of care for those impacted or at risk.” 

The provisional data shows that there was a 2.6 increase from 2021 to 2022. Of the 49,449 reported deaths in 2022, 39,255 were male (2.3 increase from 2021) and 10,194 female (3.8 increase from 2021).  

The 2022 suicide rate is 5% higher than 2018’s previous record high of 14.2 deaths for every 100,000 people and marks a 10% increase over the two years. More than half of deaths by suicide involve a firearm. A recent analysis by Johns Hopkins University calculated the suicides using a firearm as means rose to an all-time high. While there are other means, we need to review the data more closely to understand all of the statistics. We also know there is a role in the data collection that has yet to be fully vetted regarding opioid deaths and how they are counted.  

Last month marked the first anniversary of the launch of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. which exists for people to chat, text or call for help.  

More than 1 in 5 adults described their own mental health as only “fair” or “poor,” including more than half of LGBTQ+ adults and those under 30 who say they have often been or are always depressed or lonely.