Global Suicide Rates Decline by 30% Since 1990—But Not in the U.S.

Globally, suicide rates have seen a noteworthy decline over the last several decades. However, certain nations like the US are deviating from this trend, making it challenging to meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2030 reduction target by one-third.

From 1990 to 2021, the worldwide suicide rate decreased by nearly 30%, dropping from approximately 10 deaths per 100,000 to nearly 7 per 100,000, according to Jiseung Kang and her team from Korean University. They utilized the WHO’s mortality database to compile data on suicide fatalities across 102 countries.

“A growing number of countries recognize that suicide is preventable,” states Paul Nestadt from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland. Many have implemented policies aimed at reducing suicide, such as restricting access to pesticides and firearms, which appear to be yielding positive results.

Since 2000, suicide rates have consistently decreased in all continents except for the United States, where there has been over an 11% increase. Countries like Mexico, Paraguay, and the US have also seen rising suicide rates. Between 2000 and 2020, the suicide rate in the US surged from about 9.6 to 12.5 per 100,000. Researchers attribute this rise to increased firearm-related suicides and the mental health repercussions of the 2008 financial crisis.

In contrast, Asia and Europe have seen a steady decline in suicide rates, with Oceania and Africa experiencing drops before a reversal around 2010-2015. Interestingly, despite decades of decline, Europe reported the highest suicide rate in 2021 at nearly nine deaths per 100,000, while Africa had the lowest rates.

This discrepancy could be attributed to varying data collection practices. Many European nations have comprehensive systems for tracking and reporting suicide deaths, which can better inform public health strategies. “However, this means their rates may appear significantly higher than those of other regions like Africa and some parts of Asia,” adds Nestadt.

Moreover, suicide rates in high-income countries significantly surpass those in low-income nations, influenced by surveillance capabilities. Cultural attitudes towards suicide can also vary, where some societies may stigmatize the act, leading to underreporting, according to Nestadt.

Previous studies have similarly highlighted global declines in suicide rates, especially with the dawn of early Covid-19 data. Concerns about potential surges in suicide during the pandemic were widespread as many faced unemployment, isolation, and loss. “It felt like a perfect storm for suicide,” remarks Nestadt. “Yet, the surprising outcome was that suicide rates actually decreased.” The average global suicide rate fell approximately 1.5% from 2010 to 2019, with an even greater drop of nearly 1.7% during the pandemic.

“Trends often reflect a decline in suicides amid national tragedies and significant global crises,” notes Nestadt. “It’s acceptable to not be okay.” Efforts made by many governments throughout the crisis—including enhanced access to mental health resources and financial support—have been seen as positive steps. “From a suicide prevention standpoint, our pandemic response was commendable,” he adds.

Should this trend persist, researchers predict that global suicide rates could fall even further by 2050, potentially reaching fewer than 6.5 deaths per 100,000.

“These are not just numbers; countless lives could be saved,” stresses Nestadt. “It’s uplifting to recognize that there are effective interventions that can help prevent these tragedies.”

If you need a listening ear, reach out to the British Samaritans at 116123 (Samaritans.org) or the US Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 (988lifeline.org). For services in other countries, visit bit.ly/suicidehelplines.