Honoring Suicide Awareness Week: Understanding Risk and Supporting Hope
Every September, Suicide Awareness Week (and month!) reminds us of the urgency and importance of having open, informed conversations about mental health. Suicide doesn't discriminate. It touches lives across every demographic. But research shows that some groups carry a disproportionate burden of risk, making awareness, prevention, and access to care absolutely vital.
At Bloom Within Counseling, I believe in building a compassionate, inclusive culture where every individual feels seen, supported, and empowered to seek help. This week, I’m sharing current statistics and insights that reflect the mental health struggles faced by many, and the need for community-driven solutions.
Suicide by Gender: A Stark Difference in Outcomes
Although women attempt suicide more frequently, men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide. According to the CDC (2023):
In the U.S., the suicide rate is 22.8 per 100,000 for men, compared to 5.7 per 100,000 for women.
Older men (85+) are at especially high risk, with rates reaching 55.7 per 100,000. (CDC, 2023)
This gender disparity highlights the need to challenge stigma, particularly around men seeking mental health support. Silence is not strength—reaching out is.
LGBTQ+ Communities: Elevated Risk, Urgent Need for Affirming Care
Members of the LGBTQ+ community, especially youth, face heightened rates of suicidal ideation and attempts due to social stigma, discrimination, and lack of support.
Nearly 45% of LGBTQ+ youth in the U.S. seriously considered suicide in the past year. (Trevor project, 2023)
Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) adults were 3 to 6 times more likely than heterosexual adults to experience suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts in the past 12 months. (NIMH, 2021)
Transgender adults: 82% have seriously considered suicide; 40% have attempted. (U.S. Transgender Survey 2015)
Safe, affirming spaces save lives. Mental health providers must be informed, inclusive, and proactive in supporting LGBTQ+ clients.
People of Color: Disparities in Access and Outcomes
Suicide rates among American Indian and Alaska Native populations are the highest among all racial/ethnic groups in the U.S. (NIMH, 2023)
AI/AN men: 35.3 per 100,000
AI/AN women: 12.4 per 100,000
Other communities of color, including Black, Hispanic, and Asian populations,often face cultural stigma, systemic barriers, and underdiagnosis, leading to increased risk and limited access to care (NIMH, 2023)
Black Americans:
Men: 15.1 per 100,000
Women: 3.5 per 100,000
Hispanic Americans (of any race):
Men: 13.3 per 100,000
Women: 3.0 per 100,000
Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders:
Men: 10.3 per 100,000
Women: 3.7 per 100,000
Mental health equity means addressing these systemic gaps through culturally competent care and outreach.
Postpartum Depression and Suicide: A Silent Risk
Suicide is a leading cause of death in the postpartum period for both women and men.
1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression. (PSI)
1 in 10 new fathers report symptoms of postpartum depression as well.
While data on postpartum suicide rates is still emerging, the emotional and psychological impact of new parenthood cannot be overlooked. Support for new parents should include regular mental health screenings and judgment-free access to care.
Teens and Young Adults: A Generation in Crisis
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for individuals aged 10 to 24 in the U.S. (CDC, 2025)
LGBTQ+ teens face especially high rates nearly 1 in 2 have considered ending their lives. (Trevor Project, 2023)
We must prioritize prevention in schools, homes, and digital spaces where teens live and connect. Listening without judgment can be life-saving.
Warning Signs of Suicide
Recognizing the warning signs can save lives. While not everyone at risk shows the same behaviors, these signs may indicate someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts:
1. Verbal Indicators
Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself
Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live
Saying they feel like a burden to others
Mentioning unbearable emotional or physical pain
2. Behavioral Changes
Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities
Sleeping too much or too little
Giving away prized possessions
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Searching for means (e.g., looking up ways to die, purchasing a weapon)
Saying goodbye to loved ones or writing a will
3. Emotional Signs
Extreme mood swings (suddenly calm after a period of depression)
Rage or agitation
Anxiety or panic
Persistent sadness, emptiness, or numbness
4. Physical or Practical Red Flags
Decline in personal hygiene or self-care
Neglecting work, school, or responsibilities
Loss of interest in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed
If You Notice These Signs
Take all warning signs seriously. If you're concerned about someone:
Ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?”
Listen non-judgmentally
Stay with them and connect them with help
In the U.S., you can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline any time, 24/7: 988lifeline.org
If you're struggling, or know someone who is, please know that help is available, and healing is possible. At Bloom Within Counseling, I am here to support you in every season of your mental health journey.
Let’s use Suicide Awareness Week to spark empathy, action, and hope. Because everyone deserves to feel like their life matters—because it does.
