For the past two decades, suicide deaths have been rising each year in Minnesota, echoing a nationwide pattern, said the Minnesota Department of Health.
There were 808 suicides in 2021 and 835 in 2022, the department said in a news release.
Death by suicide has been cited as one reason why overall life expectancy rates may be declining in Minnesota, particularly among men. From 2011 to 2021, suicide or intentional self-harm was the eighth leading cause of death in the state.
“Suicide is a significant public health issue that involves the tragic loss of human life,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham. “It is important for us to take a comprehensive public health approach to suicide prevention that supports connectedness, belonging and protections from lethal means.”
Minnesota’s suicide prevention efforts are based on the evidence that suicides are preventable, mental illness is treatable and recovery is possible.
A report by the Minnesota Department of Health showed that males in Minnesota have a suicide rate four times higher than females.
One likely factor is males tend to try to take their life using firearms, the report said.
The Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM) training works to remove or reduce access to firearms and medications used in suicide. Gun locks are one strategy, meant to restrict access to someone who is having suicidal thoughts. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety provides people with up to three free gun locks at SafeAndSecureMN.org.
In addition, in 2021, American Indians or Alaska Natives had a higher suicide rate in Minnesota than other races or ethnicities. Efforts by tribal partners say positive connections through cultural activities, recognizing tribal sovereignty, giving people a sense of purpose, exploring nature, healthy eating and reconnecting with traditions, such as smudging, talking circles, ceremonies and indigenous medicines, are helping members avoid suicide. In addition, training to recognize signs of suicide risk and methods to respond are helping.
For Latino and Hispanic Minnesotans, suicides are on the rise, with 2021 marking more suicide deaths than the number of deaths for the previous five years.
Other efforts to prevent suicide include Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE), a Twin Cities-based suicide prevention nonprofit, that partnered with Stock and Barrel Gun Club to hold mental health nights in January 2023.
Suicide is preventable. Recovery is possible. And help is available at any time by calling or texting the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, the health department said.
