In a recent survey conducted by CVS Health in partnership with Harris Poll, it was discovered that approximately 18 percent of American adults aged 18 and older reported experiencing suicidal thoughts in the previous year. Cara McNulty, President of Behavioral Health and Mental Well-being at CVS Health, acknowledges the ongoing mental health and suicide crisis in the nation, emphasizing the importance of timely interventions, public awareness, early detection, data-backed support, programs for survivors of suicide, and community education in preventing suicide and saving lives.
The survey, commissioned by CVS Health, was conducted online in the United States from August 3 to August 7, 2023, among a sample of 2,016 U.S. adults aged 18 and older who voluntarily participated in a questionnaire addressing sensitive and personal matters concerning mental health, including suicide-related topics. The survey revealed that a significant 36 percent of young adults aged 18-34 reported having moments in the past year when they contemplated suicide. Furthermore, 89 percent of U.S. adults view suicide prevention as a major social priority. However, the survey also showed that only 32 percent of participants strongly believe they can identify warning signs of individuals at risk, and just 43 percent are highly aware of available resources for support and information regarding suicide. Additionally, a substantial 77 percent of U.S. adults believe that healthcare providers play a crucial role in preventing suicide, suggesting an opportunity for more in-depth discussions on this topic between providers and patients.
Taft Parsons III, M.D., Vice President and Chief Psychiatric Officer at CVS Health, emphasized the significance of preventing suicides, stating, "Every suicide that is prevented is a life that is saved." CVS Health is working closely with partners to implement targeted interventions for youth and develop similar programming for older adults. The goal is to raise awareness of the ongoing crisis and connect those in need to evidence-based resources that can help save lives.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the provisional figures for suicide deaths in the United States in 2022 revealed an approximate 5 percent increase compared to 2021. The newly released provisional estimates for 2022 show a further increase in suicide deaths, with the number rising from 48,183 deaths in 2021 to an estimated 49,449 deaths in 2022, marking an increase of about 2.6%. However, it is worth noting that two specific groups experienced a decrease in suicide numbers: American Indian and Alaska Native individuals (with a decline of 6.1%) and individuals aged 10-24 years (with an 8.4% decrease).
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra highlighted the severity of the mental health crisis, stating, "Nine in ten Americans believe America is facing a mental health crisis. The new suicide death data reported by the CDC illustrates why. One life lost to suicide is one too many."
To combat the crisis and provide support during crises, the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline propose a comprehensive approach. This approach involves asking and discussing suicide, ensuring access to lethal means is restricted, fostering connectedness to others, facilitating connections with the 988 Lifeline for improved emotional well-being, and engaging in follow-up care to enhance feelings of support and connectedness, ultimately reducing the risk of suicide.
The survey conducted by CVS Health and Harris Poll uncovers the alarming prevalence of suicidal thoughts among American adults. It highlights the urgent need for interventions, public awareness, and support systems to address the mental health and suicide crisis in the nation. With the collaboration of healthcare providers, community education, and evidence-based resources, there is hope to prevent suicides and save lives.
