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Analysis of Suicide Rates by Industry and Occupation in the U.S. Working-Age Population, 2021, (from page 20260222.)

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Summary

In 2021, the suicide rate among the U.S. working-age population reached 17.8 per 100,000, a 33% increase over the past two decades. The CDC’s analysis of suicide data across 49 states identified sizable disparities based on industry and occupation, with the highest rates observed in Mining, Construction, and various service and entertainment sectors. Males were more affected, particularly in high-stress roles such as Construction and Extraction, with notable rates in specialized fields like Aerospace Manufacturing and Performing Arts. This report emphasizes the importance of targeted suicide prevention strategies in workplaces and highlights variations in risk based on employment factors, urging integration of preventive measures into workplace policies.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Rising Suicide Rates in Specific Industries Significant increases in suicide rates observed in high-risk industries like Mining and Construction. Shift from lower rates to notably high suicide rates in certain sectors. Ongoing mental health support and prevention initiatives will emerge tailored for high-risk industries. Increased awareness about mental health in workplaces and need for targeted interventions. 5
Disparities in Suicide Rates by Occupation Elevated suicide rates more pronounced in certain occupations such as Agriculture and Personal Care. Transition from general awareness to focused suicide prevention strategies in specific occupational groups. Greater attention on mental health resources and institutional support aimed at vulnerable occupational populations. Growing recognition of occupational stressors and their impact on mental health. 4
Integration of Suicide Prevention in Workplaces Workplaces increasingly viewed as key sites for implementing suicide prevention strategies. From minimal workplace interventions to comprehensive suicide prevention programs in industries. Effective integration of mental health strategies will be standard practice in workplace policies. Rise in health-focused workplace cultures prompted by increasing suicide awareness. 5
Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Suicide Risk Socioeconomic status directly linked to increased suicide rates among low-skilled workers. Shifting focus from individual to systemic socioeconomic challenges influencing mental health. Enhanced policy frameworks addressing socioeconomic disparities to mitigate suicide risks. Increased advocacy for mental health support tied to economic conditions and job security. 4
Need for Better Data on Employment and Suicide Call for more detailed data on employment types and their correlation with suicide rates. From vague job categorization to specific data collection on industry and occupation-linked suicides. Improved data collection will enable precise targeting of mental health interventions in high-risk groups. A push for data-driven approaches to understand and tackle occupational health issues. 4

Concerns

name description
Rising Suicide Rates Suicide rates among working-age individuals have increased by 33% over the past two decades, indicating a growing public health crisis.
Industry-Specific Risks Certain industries and occupations, such as mining and construction, show significantly higher suicide rates, highlighting the need for targeted prevention strategies.
Mental Health Stigmas Stigmatization of mental health issues in the workplace may prevent individuals from seeking help, exacerbating the crisis.
Socioeconomic Disparities Lower socioeconomic status and educational attainment correlate with higher suicide rates, illustrating systemic economic issues contributing to mental health challenges.
Access to Lethal Means Workers in certain industries may have easier access to lethal means of suicide, amplifying the urgency for preventive measures in high-risk jobs.
Underreported Data on Occupation and Employment Limitations in data reporting on occupations may lead to insufficient understanding and strategies to address suicide within various workforce segments.
Workplace Stressors High levels of job stress, poor job control, and lack of workplace support are significant factors contributing to elevated suicide rates among workers.
Need for Comprehensive Prevention Strategies The rising trend in suicide rates underscores the necessity for integrated workplace and community-based mental health and suicide prevention initiatives.

Behaviors

name description
Workplace Mental Health Awareness Increasing recognition of the workplace as a critical setting for implementing mental health and suicide prevention strategies.
Integration of Preventive Policies Employers adopting comprehensive policies that integrate evidence-based suicide prevention practices into existing workplace frameworks.
Targeted Prevention Strategies Development of tailored suicide prevention strategies based on specific industry and occupational risks as identified by data analysis.
Research on Causal Factors Emerging focus on researching underlying causal factors of suicide differences across various industries and occupations to inform prevention efforts.
Enhanced Access to Mental Health Services Efforts to reduce stigma and increase access to mental health support within the workplace.
Use of Data-Driven Approaches Utilization of statistical analyses and data monitoring to inform and optimize suicide prevention strategies in different industries.

Technologies

name description
Workplace Mental Health Strategies Evidence-based strategies designed to integrate mental health support into workplace policies and practices, aiming to reduce suicide rates.
Data Analytics for Public Health Utilization of large data sets from sources like the National Vital Statistics System to analyze trends and inform public health interventions.
Suicide Prevention Resource for Action CDC’s guidance document that provides actionable prevention strategies tailored for workplaces to address suicide risks among employees.
Mental Health Support Services Enhanced access to mental health services within workplaces, which may include peer support and reducing stigma around seeking help.

Issues

name description
Rising Suicide Rates in Specific Industries The suicide rate among U.S. working-age populace has risen 33% in 20 years, indicating deeper workplace mental health concerns.
Industry-Specific Mental Health Risks Certain industries, particularly Mining, Construction, and Arts, related to high suicide rates, suggest a need for targeted mental health interventions.
Need for Workplace Suicide Prevention Strategies Highlighting workplaces as critical settings for suicide prevention emphasizes the urgent need for effective policies and resources in various industries.
Gender Disparities in Suicide Rates by Industry The analysis shows significant gender disparities in suicide rates across various industries, prompting tailored support and prevention efforts.
Consequences of Job Stress and Insecurity Job-related stressors, including low qualifications and job insecurity, are linked to higher suicide risk, suggesting a need for workplace reform.
Public Health Response to Employment-Linked Suicides The findings necessitate a comprehensive public health strategy addressing employment-linked factors contributing to rising suicide rates.
Underreporting of Suicide in Certain Demographics Limitations in data collection highlight potential underreporting of suicide rates in specific demographics, indicating a gap in understanding total risk.