The prevalence of suicide in the United States remains a significant public health concern. Despite brief declines in 2019 and 2020, data from the National Vital Statistics System reported a return to a near peak of 14.1 suicides per 100,000 in 2021.1 This data reveals a concerning disparity among racial and ethnic groups, with the most marked increases in suicide between 2018 and 2021 seen for Black persons, American Indian and Alaska Natives, Hispanics, and non-Hispanic multiracial individuals. While suicide rates for Whites have historically been higher compared to other groups, the escalation in communities of color, especially among Black youth, poses new challenges to suicide prevention. This shift contradicts previously held beliefs, as seen with the increased suicide rates among Black youth. Furthermore, the persistent higher-than-average suicide rates in Native American communities underscore the pressing need for culturally tailored interventions.2
Table 1.
| Demographic Group | Age Group | % Increase from 2018 |
|---|---|---|
| Black | 10-24, 25-44 | 36.6, 22.9 |
| AI/AN | 25-44 | 33.7 |
| Hispanic | 25-44 | 19.4 |
| Non-Hispanic Multiracial | 25-44 | 20.6 |
Tailored interventions addressing unique risk factors are essential for comprehending the complex factors contributing to suicide. To address racial disparities in suicide rates, a multi-layered approach is crucial. This approach encompasses not only clinical interventions but also community-based strategies, culturally sensitive education, and policy changes. Suicide prevention in the United States takes a multifaceted approach, including public awareness campaigns, gatekeeper training, crisis intervention services, and improved access to care. SAMHSA plays a pivotal role in these efforts, leading the charge in addressing suicide rates through its diverse programs and initiatives. Below, we highlight a few examples of SAMHSA's commitment to suicide prevention.
Garrett Lee Smith (GLS) State/Tribal Youth Suicide Prevention and Early Intervention Program
This program aims to assist states and tribes in rolling out youth suicide prevention and early intervention measures across educational settings, juvenile
justice systems, mental health programs, foster care, and other youth-focused organizations. The program's goals include: (1) enhancing the ability of youth
organizations to identify and support at-risk youth; (2) bolstering clinical providers' skills in assessing and treating such youth; and (3) ensuring consistent
care and follow-up for youth recognized as suicide risks, especially post-discharge from emergency or psychiatric units. The GLS State Program awarded $500,000
to six organizations across five states:
Garrett Lee Smith (GLS) Campus Suicide Prevention Grant Program
This program aims to bolster mental health services for all college students, especially those at risk due to factors like depression, serious mental illness,
emotional disturbances, or substance use disorders that might jeopardize their academic success. By adopting a comprehensive, evidence-based, public health approach,
the program seeks to: (1) mitigate and prevent suicide, as well as mental and substance use disorders; (2) encourage students to seek help when needed; and (3)
enhance the detection and treatment of students at risk. Ultimately, the program's goal is to decrease suicide rates and attempts by identifying at-risk students,
promoting mental well-being, and reducing potential risk factors. This grant program funded 14 organizations across 11 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands with
funding amounts ranging from $250,000 to $1,250,000. Some of the funded organizations include:
Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) serves as a hub for best practices, training, and resources to help communities develop effective strategies for preventing suicide. The SPRC is a pivotal resource for suicide prevention, offering support for the implementation of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, maintaining a Best Practices Registry for prevention programs and interventions, and housing an extensive online library of toolkits, fact sheets, and more. Additionally, SPRC provides diverse training opportunities, from in-person sessions to online courses, all aimed at enhancing knowledge in suicide prevention. Their comprehensive collection of programs and interventions incorporates national best practices and culturally relevant approaches, ensuring effective and inclusive suicide prevention efforts.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides critical crisis services for those in immediate need. Previously named the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 free and confidential support for individuals in suicidal crisis or emotional distress across the United States. Powered by a network of over 200 local crisis centers, the Lifeline combines local resources with national standards to ensure effective care. Initially launched in 2005 by SAMHSA and Vibrant Emotional Health, the Lifeline has championed various initiatives to enhance crisis services and promote suicide prevention, collaborating with partners like National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, National Council for Behavioral Health, and Living Works, Inc. for its effective management and training. In 2020, Congress designated the new 988 dialing code to be operated through the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, and the nation transitioned to the three-digit dialing code in 2022.