People at Greater Risk of Suicide

Thoughts of suicide can touch any person anywhere, but there are some groups in the U.S. that are at greater risk for different reasons.

If you are feeling alone and having thoughts of suicide—whether or not you are in crisis—or know someone who is, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Adults Over the Age of 45

Video: Suicide Lies

Suicide is a liar, turning your own thoughts against you.

» Watch the Video

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.

Find Help in Your Area

Don’t remain silent. Talk to someone you can trust. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or talk to a trusted friend.

More Resources:

American Indians

Know that you are not alone. There is help.

» Watch the Video

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.

Find Help in Indian Country

If you are feeling alone or in crisis, or know someone who is, find out more about getting help in Indian Country. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or talk to a trusted friend.

More Resources:

Learn about risk factors, warning signs and action steps you can take.
Share our “Seven Generations” Video for American Indians
To Live to See the Great Day That Dawns (PDF | 7.1 MB) – Preventing Suicide by American Indian and Alaska Native Youth and Young Adults
Suicide Prevention and Care, Indian Health Service
We R Native

Alaskan Natives

Video: The Heart of the Land

You are the heart of our people and you are needed.

» Watch the Video

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.

Find Help in Alaska

If you are feeling alone or in crisis, or know someone who is, don’t suffer in silence. Find out more about getting help in Alaska. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or talk to a trusted friend.