Why have suicide deaths increased so dramatically?
The Centers for Disease Control reported last week that suicide rates have increased -- dramatically -- across the country from 1999 to 2016. The CDC said suicide rates went up in 49 states. Nevada had a 1% decrease during that time period and was the only state without more suicides.
The suicide rate increased more than 34% in Pennsylvania during those 17 years. That's a substanial number of people taking their own lives. About 2,000 Pennsylvanians die from suicide each year.
It's a topic that should be discussed more, but often doesn't get attention until a well-known person takes their own life. Last week, designer Kate Spade and chef Anthony Boudain died by suicide and that has prompted a national conversation.
On Tuesday's Smart Talk, we'll ask why suicide rates have increased, the signs that someone may be thinking of ending their life and how and where to get help.
Appearing on the program are Govan Martin, Chair of the Board of Directors of the organization Prevent Suicide PA, Kelly Gollick, Executive Director of CONTACT Helpline in Central Pennsylvania and Perri Rosen, who is a school psychologist and Project Director of the Garrett Lee Smith Youth Suicide Prevention Grant. She is employed by the Office of Mental Health Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) under the Department of Human Services.
1-800-273-TALK (8255) or in Central PA, call 2-1-1.