The US is facing a growing mental health crisis, with the young adult suicide rate increasing by nearly 20% in most states from 2014 to 2022. This trend is particularly concerning for Black and Hispanic men, who are more likely to be affected.
According to data from the CDC, the number of suicides among young adults aged 18-27 increased significantly over this period. Gen Zers, who entered this age range as the trend began, were found to be at higher risk than millennials. States with high increases in suicide rates include Georgia, North Carolina, Texas, Alabama, and Ohio.
However, some states saw a decrease in suicide rates, including North Dakota, Vermont, and Delaware. Experts attribute the increase in young adult suicides to various factors, such as bullying on social media, economic despair, and cultural resistance to seeking help for depression.
Firearms are now involved in most youth suicides, according to data from Everytown, an anti-gun violence group. As federal funding for mental health programs is at risk of being cut under the Trump administration’s spending cuts, many states will need to find alternative sources of support for vulnerable populations.
The rising young adult suicide rate highlights the urgent need for improved mental health services and support across the US.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/10/07/young-adult-suicide-rate-map