Suicide Rate in United States Rises to 30-Year High

Despite the aggressive efforts of the government and mental health practitioners, the number of people committing suicide in the United States continues to rise, reaching the highest records in nearly 30 years.

According to the report of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 out of 100,000 people in the United States committed suicide in 2014, a 24 percent increase from 10.5 people out of 100,000 in 1994.

During the 20-year difference, the suicide rate of males and females aged 10 to 74 has increased. People aged 10 to 14 have the highest suicide rates for females; while men aged 45 to 64 have the highest suicide rates for men.

Females tend to kill themselves with poison, 34.1 percent, while firearms are the most frequently used suicide method for men, 55.4 percent. Suicide attributed to suffocation has also increased with both males and females. The study also noted that men tend to kill themselves three times more than women.

In a report from CBS News, Dr. Maria Oquendo, president-elect of the American Psychiatric Association said that the rise of social media has contributed to the steady rise of suicide rates for teens, especially for girls.

"Now things are happening online, unmonitored, and untoward things could be going on and having adverse affects on kids," said Dr. Oquendo relating to cyber-bullying.

On the other hand, the surge of suicide rates in middle-aged men can be attributed to opiate addiction, drug abuse and employment problems.

At present, there are many support groups who are more than willing to help people overcome their suicidal tendencies. One of these groups is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This organization has a free 24-hour hotline 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to help those who are in need.

Other groups utilize teens love for texting to help those who have suicidal thoughts. They can be reached by texting "help" to 741-741.