CDC: Suicide rates on the rise in almost every state

Suicide rates are on the rise in almost every state, according to a new analysis released Thursday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

Suicide has become the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. and is one of three leading causes that are on the rise, the CDC said. 

From 1999 to 2016, rates increased in nearly all states, ranging from a 6 percent increase in Delaware to a 57 percent increase in North Dakota. 

Twenty-five states had increases of more than 30 percent. 

“Suicide is a leading cause of death for Americans — and it’s a tragedy for families and communities across the country,” said Dr. Anne Schuchat, principal deputy director of the CDC.

“From individuals and communities to employers and healthcare professionals, everyone can play a role in efforts to help save lives and reverse this troubling rise in suicide.”

Nearly 45,000 Americans age 10 or older died by suicide in 2016, according to the CDC.

Researchers also found that more than half of people who died by suicide did not have a known diagnosed mental health condition at the time of death. 

“Relationship problems or loss, substance misuse; physical health problems; and job, money, legal or housing stress often contributed to risk for suicide,” the report reads.