In Crisis? Call or Text 988

Preventing Suicide

Help Prevent Suicide

Suicide can touch anyone, anywhere, and at any time. But it is not inevitable. There is hope.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

If you are feeling alone and having thoughts of suicide—whether or not you are in crisis—or know someone who is, don’t remain silent. Talk to someone you can trust through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Call or text 988 or chat the lifeline.

Suicide takes precious lives. It can affect anyone, anywhere at any time, devastating families and even entire communities. But it is not inevitable. Help prevent suicide and offer support to those in crisis by sharing and airing these resources.

Find more information about suicide and recognizing suicidal behavior.

At-Risk Populations

Adults Over the Age of 45

Middle-aged people, especially men, have the highest rate of suicide compared to other groups. Eighty percent of all deaths by suicide in the U.S. are among men and women age 45-54. Men ages 85 and older have the highest rate of any group in the country. Many factors contribute to this risk, including isolation, a history of violence, and access to lethal means.

American Indians

Young American Indian men—especially in the Northern Plains—are at high risk for suicide compared to other groups. While many of the risk factors are the same as those affecting other groups, young American Indian men face additional challenges such as historical trauma, cultural distress, poverty, geographic isolation, and suicide in the community that can cause increased stress.

Alaska Natives

Young men living in Alaska are greatly affected by suicide, wrestling with stigma and silence. In 2017, Alaska had the second highest rate of suicide in the nation. But new prevention efforts and knowledge are making headway in counteracting challenges such as mental health and substance abuse problems.

Resources for Alaska Natives:

Seven Generations Video for American Indians

Based on the “seven generations” philosophy of American Indian culture, this video builds a powerful connection across the generations, while offering a powerful message to young males to seek help if they are having thoughts of suicide.

“Seven Generations” was produced with the participation of several American Indian tribes and cultural advisors on location in Montana. SAMHSA is grateful for their assistance.

Heart of the Land Video for Alaska Native Youth

Using a generational approach to prevent suicide, this video appeals to the pride and strength of Alaska Native culture, using storytelling to remind young males that it is up to their generation to carry forward their proud culture.

“Heart of the Land” was produced with the help of a Native Alaskan film director, cultural advisors and members of several tribes in Alaska. SAMHSA is grateful for their assistance.

Other Groups at Greater Risk of Suicide

References and Related Resources

Information for Use

All materials on this webpage (video and audio spots) are free and created for public use without permission from, or charge by, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Their use by anyone should not be construed as an endorsement of the views, opinions, programs, or activities of the use, nor as a reflection of the views of HHS or SAMHSA.

Last Updated: 04/24/2023
Source: https://www.samhsa.gov/help-prevent-suicide