Organ Mountain News report

SANTA FE - Suicide rates in New Mexico declined in 2023, particularly among women and Indigenous residents, according to data released by the New Mexico Department of Health.

The report shows a 42% drop in suicides among women, with deaths falling from 116 in 2022 to 67 in 2023. Suicide deaths among American Indian and Alaska Native residents decreased by 43%, from 77 in 2022 to 44 in 2023. Overall, the state’s suicide rate declined by 9% over the year.

Despite the improvement, NMDOH officials caution that these numbers do not signal a lasting trend. The state’s suicide rate remains 9% higher than it was a decade ago. Additionally, the suicide rate among men showed no significant change in 2023, highlighting an ongoing challenge for prevention efforts.

“Suicide is a serious public health problem that can have lasting effects on communities,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, NMDOH Chief Medical Officer. “Preventing suicide requires many strategies, but everyone can help by learning the warning signs, promoting prevention, and working to foster healthy connections and safe environments.”

Risk and protective factors

The National Council for Suicide Prevention identifies several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of suicide, including:

• Alcohol and substance use disorders
• Mental illnesses
• History of trauma or abuse
• Family history of suicide
• Easy access to lethal means
• Stigma or isolation associated with seeking help

Protective factors include access to affordable health care, strong community and social connections, and reduced access to lethal means, among others.

Resources available

New Mexico residents struggling with mental health or substance use issues can contact the 988 Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7 by calling or texting 988. Additional information about the service is available at https://988nm.org.

More resources, including suicide prevention training and community support initiatives, are available through the New Mexico Suicide Prevention Coalition and NMDOH’s Office of Injury and Violence Prevention.