In 2020, suicide was the third leading cause of death for Blacks or African Americans, ages 15 to 24.

 

The death rate from suicide for Black or African American men was four times greater than for African American women, in 2018.

 

Black females, grades 9-12, were 60 percent more likely to attempt suicide in 2019, as compared to non-Hispanic white females of the same age.

 

Black or African Americans living below the poverty level, as compared to those over twice the poverty level, are twice as likely to report serious psychological distress.

 

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health.

 

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Suicide is when people harm themselves with the goal of ending their life, and they die as a result.

A suicide attempt is when people harm themselves with the goal of ending their life, but they do not die.

Avoid using terms such as “committing suicide,” “successful suicide,” or “failed suicide” when referring to suicide and suicide attempts, as these terms often carry negative meanings

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Warning signs that someone may be at immediate risk for attempting suicide include:

• Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves

• Talking about feeling empty or hopeless or having no reason to live

• Talking about feeling trapped or feeling that there are no solutions

• Feeling unbearable emotional or physical pain

• Talking about being a burden to others

• Withdrawing from family and friends

• Giving away important possessions

• Saying goodbye to friends and family

• Putting affairs in order, such as making a will

• Taking great risks that could lead to death, such as driving extremely fast

• Talking or thinking about death often
   

Other serious warning signs include:

• Displaying extreme mood swings, suddenly changing from very sad to very calm or happy

• Making a plan or looking for ways to kill themselves, such as searching for lethal methods online, stockpiling pills, or buying a gun

• Talking about feeling great guilt or shame

• Using alcohol or drugs more often

• Acting anxious or agitated

• Changing eating or sleeping habits

• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
   

Risk Factors:

• Depression, other mental disorders, or substance use disorder

• Chronic pain

• A history of suicide attempts

• Family history of a mental disorder or substance use

• Family history of suicide

• Exposure to family violence, including physical or sexual abuse

• Presence of guns or other firearms in the home

• Having recently been released from prison or jail

• Exposure, either directly or indirectly, to others' suicidal behavior, such as that of family members, peers, or celebrities.