Suicide Facts

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) provide fact sheets and other information about suicide. Click on the links below to view these resources.

Suicide Fact Sheet 2020

This fact sheet published by the CDC in 2020 shares facts and statistics for 2018.
Understanding Suicide Fact Sheet - 2020

This fact sheet provides information on understanding youth who struggle with suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Suicide Trends in the United States

This fact sheet shows trends among high school aged youth between the years of 1991-2019.
10 Leading Causes of Death by Age Group, United States

This fact sheet shows the 10 leading causes of death by age group in the United States using 2018 data, which is the most current data published by the CDC in 2020.

Suicidal threats in the form of indirect (e.g. "I wish I could fall asleep and never wake up again") and direct statements (e.g. "I am going to kill myself")
Suicide notes and plans (including online postings)
Preoccupation with death
Making final arrangements (e.g. giving away prized possessions)
Changes in appearance, behavior, thoughts, and/or feelings
Drop in grades
Loss of interest
Reckless behavior
Substance abuse

Previous suicide attempts
Withdrawal (isolation)
Non-suicidal self-injury (e.g. cutting)
Feelings of hopelessness
Mental illness including depression, conduct disorders and substance abuse
Family distress/dysfunction or violence
Family history of suicide
Environmental risks, including the presence of a firearm in the home
Suicide of a peer
Bullying and harassment
Situational crises (e.g. breakup of a relationship/friendship, family violence, physical or sexual abuse, serious disciplinary action)