While much has been learned about the factors that play a part in suicidal behavior, more research and prevention efforts are needed. National strategies for preventing suicidal behavior must be developed and implemented to prevent the suffering and loss of life associated with such behavior. This effort requires the commitment and expertise of a broad spectrum of partners, from community leaders to public health professionals to suicide survivors to experts in mental health and substance abuse. More people die from suicide than from homicide in the United States. In 1997, suicide was the eighth leading cause of death in this country.
Suicide is a serious problem among young people.
That same year, a nationwide survey of high school students found that in the previous year, one-fifth had seriously considered suicide and 1 in 13 had attempted it. Older adults have had the highest suicide rate of all age groups since 1933, the year all states began reporting deaths. Suicide rates tend to rise with age and are highest among white men age 65 and older. Most suicides are males. Although more females attempt suicide than males, males are at least four times as likely to die from suicide.