Black Youth Suicide: Investigation of Current Trends and Precipitating Circumstances

Posted on September 30, 2025 by STOLBER Digital

Seeing rising suicide rates in certain populations is always a cause for concern. It is especially concerning when these rates are happening among young people. In the U.S., suicide rates among Black youth have been increasing in recent years. While there are many possible factors, this should signal that work needs to be done and change needs to be made.

Suicide Trends Affecting Black Youth

From 2018 to 2021, suicide rates increased from 8.2% to 11.2% for Black youth ages 10–24. [1] It was the third leading cause of death for this age demographic in 2022. [2] When looking further back, in the last 25 years, self-reported Black youth suicide attempts have increased by a staggering 73%. [3] Among Black youth, suicide rates for males were four times higher than females in 2021. [4]

According to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, suicide rates among Black populations peaked for youth between the years 2011–2020. There was a sharp spike in suicide rates starting for those around age 15 with the highest rates being in the 25–34 age range. However, rates slowly and steadily declined with each age group afterwards. This pattern is noticeably different than that of the overall U.S. population, where the highest suicide rates happen between the ages of 45–54 as well as 75 and older. [5] These numbers signal a huge concern that Black youth do not have appropriate mental health support.

Why are Black Youth at Risk?

Black communities face various barriers to treatment and support when it comes to mental health and suicide prevention. Youth may face particular challenges when it comes to finding and accessing limited resources. They also deal with other risk factors that often surround them. These difficulties can put them at a disadvantage. Here are a few of the leading factors when it comes to suicide risk among black youth.

COVID-19 pandemic

The pandemic hit some communities harder than others. Youth in particular were put in a difficult position. They had to adjust to remote learning, miss out on important milestone events, and were isolated from their friends. Black youth specifically may have faced even more difficulties, especially those living in low-income areas or households. Some segments of the Black youth population struggled greatly. They faced challenges from not having the tools or technology to keep up with school from home. Others were affected by being stuck in an abusive home environment. A study from the state of Maryland found that suicide rates doubled for Black youth during the early days of the pandemic. [6] However, it’s important to remember that even before the pandemic, suicide rates in Black youth were already rising, signaling that other factors have been playing a role.

Trauma exposure

Another contributing role in Black youth suicide is the exposure to trauma, violence, or other adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Racial discrimination is one example of an ACE. This can be detected in children as young as six years old and is likely to stick with them throughout their lives. [7] Additionally, Black youth who are living in racially segregated and low-income areas are more likely than their peers to experience or witness violence in their families or neighborhoods. [8] Generational trauma may also be present in those whose parents or grandparents experienced violence, abuse, or discrimination. About 65% of Black youth report experiencing some kind of trauma in their lives. [9]

Limited access to culturally appropriate mental health care

Many Black communities are faced with barriers when it comes to receiving mental health care, especially care that is culturally appropriate. Socioeconomic disparities play a big factor, making it difficult for many in Black communities to access and afford the care they need. Only about 25% of Black people in the U.S. seek mental health care treatment, compared to 40% of white people. [10] Finding culturally appropriate mental health care is also important—yet it can be another barrier. Only about 2% of the U.S. psychologists are Black. [11] Seeing a Black mental health professional may not feel necessary to some. However, it’s important to find someone who is trained to provide culturally sensitive care. This creates a safe, judgement-free space and helps trust be more easily built.

Taking Steps Toward Black Youth Suicide Prevention

In order to start seeing a decline of suicide rates among Black youth, change has to be made across the board. First, investing in more research specifically focused on Black youth can be a way to shed more light on this growing problem. It can help others see that larger, systemic change needs to happen within Black communities. This includes better and more affordable access to quality healthcare. Additionally, the healthcare provided should be culturally appropriate. Finding ways to support current and future Black psychologists is another step in helping Black youth get access to culturally sensitive care. Finally, it’s important to continue to have open conversations around mental health to break the stigma. Many communities continue to push the narrative that opening up makes a person appear weak. Families and communities need to become safer places for young people to share their feelings, experiences, and ways they may be struggling.

Black youth need more support now than ever when it comes to their mental health. From the struggles of the pandemic to lack of appropriate and accessible resources, many in this population feel stuck and don’t know where to turn when they’re struggling. However, steps can be taken to help Black youth feel seen, heard, and supported. Through continual small steps and increased public awareness of this crisis, the seeds for change can be planted. This can start to positively impact Black communities and future generations.

If you’re curious to learn more, watch Strengths-Based Approaches to Suicide Prevention in the Black Community, an on-demand webinar hosted by Jasmin Brooks Stephens, PhD. In this talk, Dr. Brooks Stephens covers socio-cultural risk factors for Black youth as well as outlines steps that can be taken to address this crisis.

Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling or in a crisis, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available.

Sources:

[1] https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/pdfs/mm7206a4-h.pdf

[2] https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/mental-and-behavioral-health-blackafrican-americans

[3] https://theactionalliance.org/sites/default/files/ring_the_alarm-_the_crisis_of_black_youth_suicide_in_america_copy.pdf

[4] https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/mental-and-behavioral-health-blackafrican-americans

[5] https://sprc.org/about-suicide/scope-of-the-problem/racial-and-ethnic-disparities/black-populations/

[6] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10227859/

[7] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9035019/

[8] https://www.nctsn.org/sites/default/files/resources/complex_trauma_facts_in_urban_african_american_children_youth_families.pdf

[9] https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/black-mental-health

[10] https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/black-mental-health

[11] https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/black-mental-health

Cultural Perspectives on Suicide: How Different Societies Approach Prevention

Posted on September 30, 2025 by STOLBER Digital

When it comes to suicide prevention, cultural awareness is extremely important. Every culture has their own views of suicide, stemming from their histories and belief systems. Therefore, not everyone addresses suicide prevention efforts in the same ways. Here is a look at how various cultures from around the world have historically viewed suicide and how some of them approach prevention.

Eastern Views and Approaches to Suicide

Historically, countries in Eastern cultures have had a more positive view of suicide than those in Western cultures. For example, in some Asian countries, suicide used to be viewed as a noble or honorable act. China is one example of an Eastern country that has shifted its view on suicide over time. Suicide was seen as honorable when it was done for social or political causes. It was even viewed highly when Confucianism was the main philosophy throughout the country. China saw their worst rates of suicide in the 1990s. [1] However, the rates dramatically declined in the decades to follow. There may be several factors at play. One possibility is fast economic growth. Another factor could be surveillance-based monitoring of students on college campuses. [2] China has also been working to reduce air pollution, as some studies have shown a connection between air pollution and suicide rates. [3]

Japan is another Eastern country that has shifted its perceptions of suicide. Its general attitude toward suicide has been described as “tolerant.” [4] Similar to China, Japanese cultures have historically viewed suicide as honorable or “morally responsible” when it’s performed as a ritual. Also similar to China, Japan experienced a spike in suicide rates in the 1990s when they experienced an economic crisis. However, unlike China, Japan’s rates have not recovered to the extent that China has seen. Japan has, though, been working toward getting its rates down. In 2006, the government initiated a national suicide prevention strategy that helped reduce suicide rates by 35% by the year 2022. [5] This strategy along with other prevention efforts have helped the topic of suicide to be less of a taboo in Japanese culture. Instead, it is starting to be seen as a legitimate health concern.

Western Views and Approaches to Suicide

Western cultures have historically had a much more negative view of suicide compared to Eastern cultures. In these cultures, suicide is often seen as shameful and cowardly. It is also considered illegal in some places. In fact, the term “commit suicide” comes from when suicide was a crime and those who survived suicide could be imprisoned. [6] Much of the stigma surrounding suicide stemmed from Judeo-Christian beliefs and teachings that have been prominent in Western cultures. These teachings considered suicide immoral and punishable. While these religious overtones may no longer be as prominent, the stigma has lingered. This has caused many to struggle in silence, feeling ashamed and hesitant to get help.

Historically, Western cultures have had a more clinical approach to suicide. They focus on identifying and treating mental illness that may be associated with it. This differs from other cultures. In more recent years, however, the topic of mental health has been more openly talked about. Wider prevention strategies started being put into place. For example, the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention was developed in the U.S. as a 10-year, whole-of-society approach to preventing suicide. Rather than only focusing on the clinical aspect, this strategy addressed health equity and community-based prevention methods.

African Views and Approaches to Suicide

Cultures in African countries also have their own unique perspectives when it comes to how they view and handle the topic of suicide. The cultures and belief systems throughout Africa vary greatly depending on the region. Many cultures view suicide as a taboo topic. This is often due to fear and unknowns surrounding mental health and illness in these cultures. Belief systems play into this, as well, with some cultures viewing suicide as the result of evil spirits or inherited curses. In some countries, such as Ghana and Uganda, suicide is punishable by law and can have severe consequences for the person’s family and community. [7]

Historically, there was an assumption that countries in Africa had low suicide rates. However, this was likely due to a lack of reporting and studies on suicide deaths in African countries. It has since been found that suicide is a public health concern. [8] Due to the vast diversity of culture and lack of data, suicide prevention strategies for African regions have been difficult to implement and research. However, many African cultures highly value community-based efforts. Traditional healers are important in many countries. One example is in South Africa. They have played a crucial role in helping people at risk of suicide. [9]

Indigenous Views and Approaches to Suicide

Indigenous cultures have struggled with significantly higher rates of suicide than non-Indigenous cultures, specifically in North America. [10] There are many factors that play a role in this, including generational trauma, loss of cultural identity, and issues related to poverty. Many Indigenous communities see suicide as a symptom of their broader collective trauma. However, many of these cultures have had stigmatized views of suicide for generations, making it difficult to approach the subject and receive help.

Because community is at the heart of Indigenous culture, Indigenous-specific approaches to suicide prevention often prioritize community-based and culturally grounded practices. This might include performing ceremonies, storytelling, connecting with the land, and finding ways to celebrate and honor their culture. [11] Elders also play a central role in supporting youth and restoring these generational and cultural ties. Rather than focusing on the individual, Indigenous strategies aim to heal the collective spirit and restore harmony within the entire community.

Suicide occurs in all countries and cultures. However, there are different ways to approach it. These methods should specifically resonate with the people who are affected. Learning about cultural differences helps us understand and stay aware that some forms of prevention may be more appropriate than others. The overarching theme, though, appears to be the need for community and meaning. Even though this may be found and approached in different ways, everyone needs to know that they matter to others and that their life has significance.

Sources:

[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352827323000071

[2] https://www.healthdisgroup.us/articles/APM-5-125.php

[3] https://news.ucsb.edu/2024/021373/clearing-air-reduces-suicide-rates

[4] https://www.suicidecleanup.com/culture-and-suicidal-behavior/

[5] https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/suicide-prevention-in-japan–a-public-health-priority

[6] https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/news/why-language-matters/rethinking-language-suicide

[7] https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.549404/full

[8] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1876201823004355

[9] https://www.madinamerica.com/2018/05/traditional-south-african-healers-use-social-bonds-connection-suicide-prevention/

[10] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3483901/

[11] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9588522/

Addressing Suicide in Indigenous Populations

Posted on September 30, 2025 by STOLBER Digital

Suicide is an issue that all communities face, but some populations have much higher rates than others. Indigenous communities are an example. For decades in the U.S., Indigenous populations have disproportionally high rates of suicide compared to other populations. [1] However, this isn’t only happening in the U.S. In Canada, First Nations people, Métis, and Inuit all have significantly higher suicide rates than non-Indigenous people. [2] The same is true for First Nations people in Australia, with suicide rates being more than three times higher than non-Indigenous populations. [3]

Why are Indigenous populations across the globe at a greater risk of suicide than non-Indigenous populations? Historically, Indigenous communities have been overlooked when it comes to research and funding. Indigenous groups make up around 6% of the world’s population [4] and approximately 2% of the population in the U.S. [5] Even though they’re small, these communities are incredibly important.

Mental health challenges can affect everyone. However, Indigenous populations face unique struggles. This contributes to significantly higher rates of suicide among Indigenous people. These disparities are rooted in a complex history of colonization, cultural erasure, discrimination, and generational trauma. Addressing suicide, then, is not only a matter of public health. It is also an essential step toward finding healing and creating equity for Indigenous peoples everywhere.

Who are Indigenous Peoples?
Indigenous peoples are identified as those who inhabited a land long before other groups from other cultures settled there. These communities have their own rich histories and cultures, including their own languages and beliefs. They have strong ties to the land itself and deep knowledge of the natural world. Many Indigenous communities are also self-governing. In the U.S. alone, 574 different American Indian tribes and Alaska Native entities are recognized. [6]

Causes of Suicide: Poverty and Other Factors
Suicide is a complex issue. It can be caused by a variety of factors. Indigenous populations have their own set of unique challenges. Many of these challenges are tied to their history of oppression. Because these challenges are unique to this population, it can be difficult for Indigenous communities. They struggle to get the attention they need. Understanding and assistance are often elusive for them.

One of the most prominent issues is poverty. Based on the 2018 U.S. Census data, Indigenous people had the highest rate of poverty among all minority groups, with 25.4% living in poverty. [7] In 2022, poverty levels rose specifically for American Indian and Alaska Native children, with 25.9% living in poverty. [8] Poverty can have ripple effects, leading to lack of healthcare and the issue of substance use.

Lack of healthcare access
Many Indigenous communities have limited access to healthcare services. This is due to a variety of factors, ranging from unemployment to racial discrimination to limited access to transportation. Because of this, Indigenous people are more likely to suffer from health issues that many of the general population are able to more easily prevent. For example, over 50% of Indigenous people worldwide over age 35 have type 2 diabetes. [9] They also are more likely to experience cardiovascular illnesses. [10] Living with health challenges can be isolating, physically uncomfortable, and may lead to depression and risk of suicide.

Substance use
Just like the lack of general healthcare access, Indigenous communities also have limited access to resources for substance use treatment. In the U.S., substance use among Indigenous people is much greater than that of the general population. The 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) found that 10% of Native Americans have a substance use disorder and 7.1% have an alcohol use disorder. [11] It also found that nearly 25% of Native Americans reported binge drinking in the past month. [12] Again, much of this is due to a lack of available treatment options. There is also a lack of transportation services. Both of these issues stem from the problem of poverty. Studies report that over 50% of all suicides are associated with drugs or alcohol. [13]

Additionally, there are other cultural and historical factors that play into negative mental health outcomes and suicide risk.

Stigma around mental health
While steps have been made in many areas to reduce mental health stigma, certain populations still hold tight to certain beliefs related to mental health issues. This makes it difficult for those struggling to feel safe and accepted if they reach out for help. According to the American Psychiatric Association, many Native American people experience some type of stigma around seeking out mental health care services. [14] They may be afraid that admitting they need help makes them appear weak or that this will bring shame upon their families or communities.
Generational trauma
One of the big issues affecting many Indigenous people is generational trauma. Generational trauma happens when one or more people experience something traumatic and pass the trauma down to further generations. The affected person often learns an unhealthy coping mechanism that their children are inevitably taught. This is one way that abuse gets passed down from generation to generation. Because Indigenous communities have historically faced oppression, displacement, and other forms of mistreatment, it has led to these cycles of generational trauma. These cycles can be difficult to break and often have a lasting impact on people’s mental health.
Violence
Domestic violence is another prevalent issue among Indigenous communities. Over 84% of American Indian and Alaska Native women experience some form of violence in their lifetime. More than 50% experience sexual violence. [15] Violence can happen for a number of reasons. It can be the result of unresolved generational trauma as well as the result of drug or alcohol abuse. No matter the cause, it can have lasting, damaging effects on a person’s mental and emotional well-being.

Approaching Prevention: A Community Effort
Tackling a multi-faceted issue such as suicide requires more than just a singular approach. Helping Indigenous communities feel supported and have access to quality, culturally appropriate care requires many avenues of change. Here are a few steps to start the momentum of prevention.

Promote cultural revitalization
Prioritizing and celebrating Indigenous cultures is a critical starting point for healing. Many communities carry deep pain from past events. This includes being displaced from their land. It also involves having key components of their cultures erased. By reconnecting with traditional languages, spiritual practices, and ancestral knowledge, Indigenous cultures can gain strength, identity, and build stronger communities. When community members are empowered to reclaim and celebrate their cultural heritage, it can restore pride, resilience, and hope in who they are.
Elevate Indigenous voices
Along with promoting cultural revitalization, it’s also crucial to find ways to help elevate the voices of Indigenous communities. This includes making decisions that affect their own land. It also involves telling their own stories. Examples of ways to help elevate the voices of Indigenous communities include providing opportunities for them to share their knowledge. It is also important to support them in sharing their history and opinions. Funding various Indigenous organizations and advocating for land back initiatives can also be a step towards healing. While it doesn’t change the pain and trauma from the past, it’s another way to strengthen these communities and show that they matter and are important. When people know they matter, it can set them up for a successful future.
Foster youth empowerment
Helping the next generation find strength and freedom is another way to begin breaking the cycle of pain. When Indigenous youth are given meaningful opportunities to lead and engage fully with their culture, they grow in their confidence, resilience, and form a stronger sense of identity. Empowerment programs that focus on leadership development, mentorship, education, and cultural engagement help youth feel valued and give them a sense of hope for their futures. These initiatives also foster community connection and generational healing, as young people become active participants in preserving and revitalizing their heritage. By investing in youth empowerment, communities create pathways of hope, resilience, and self-determination that can break cycles of despair and promote long-term well-being.

Provide appropriate mental health services
Accessible, culturally appropriate mental health services are incredibly important. These services can provide support for individuals struggling with depression and anxiety. They also assist those dealing with substance use and suicidal thoughts. These issues are often rooted in historical oppression and systemic racism. Additionally, they are linked to the erosion of cultural identity. It’s important to be aware, though, that addressing complex issues such as generational and communal trauma involves specific care targeted toward specific populations. The CAMS Framework® has been successful in helping those in marginalized communities, including Indigenous populations, who experience suicidal ideation. Culturally appropriate mental health services, including peer support programs and community-based healing initiatives, can offer therapeutic support while helping to restore dignity, connection, and hope.

Current Resources for Indigenous Suicide Prevention
These are a few current resources and initiatives that have been working to make a difference in the lives of Indigenous people who are struggling with suicide.

Center for Native American Youth (Aspen Institute)
This is a national education and advocacy organization that works with Native youth ages 24 and under on reservations, in rural villages, and in cities all across the U.S.
Zero Suicide in Indian Country
Zero Suicide is a framework of suicide-specific care that is used in a wide range of behavioral healthcare systems. This resource uses the Zero Suicide framework tailored specifically to Indigenous populations and their unique needs.
Celebrating Life (Center for Indigenous Health)
Funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Celebrating Life was created to support individuals of the White Mountain Apache Tribe struggling with suicide through a partnership with John Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health. This program has seen incredible success, including a 38% decrease of death by suicide. [16]
Qungasvik Toolbox
The Qungasvik Toolbox was created by Yup’ik Alaska Native communities to help youth who are struggling with alcohol abuse and suicidal ideation. It engages elders, parents, and other adults, helping create a safe space for healing while helping youth be engaged in their culture.

Addressing suicide in Indigenous populations is not a small task. It demands long-term commitment to listening, understanding, and helping create systemic change. By acknowledging both the historical and present-day injustices, we can better understand how they have shaped mental health outcomes in these communities. This recognition allows us to create spaces that honor cultural resilience. Additionally, we can support holistic healing. This means investing in culturally appropriate mental health services, empowering and elevating Indigenous voices, and promoting community-led initiatives. Most importantly, it means recognizing that healing is possible when we come together, lift up those who are hurting, and celebrate their important role in our world.

Sources:

[1] https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/data.html

[2] https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/99-011-x/99-011-x2019001-eng.htm

[3] https://www.aihw.gov.au/suicide-self-harm-monitoring/population-groups/first-nations-people

[4] https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/Indigenouspeoples

[5] https://iwgia.org/en/usa.html

[6] https://www.usa.gov/tribes

[7] https://ncrc.org/racial-wealth-snapshot-native-americans

[8] https://www.epi.org/blog/native-american-child-poverty-more-than-doubled-in-2022-after-safety-net-cutbacks-child-poverty-rate-is-higher-than-before-the-pandemic/

[9] https://www.un.org/development/desa/Indigenouspeoples/mandated-areas1/

[10] https://www.un.org/development/desa/Indigenouspeoples/mandated-areas1/

[11] https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/addiction-statistics-demographics/native-americans