West Virginia – Older Americans have the highest rates of suicide of any age group in the nation, and new data show West Virginia is among the top ten states for suicides among the 70-plus age group, with 687 deaths between 2009 and 2023.
The rate of suicide among older adults has almost doubled in the past 20 years, in part because the population overall is aging, explained Aaron Mendelson, a data journalist with the The Trace and the Gun Violence Data Hub.
“Older Americans are also more likely to use a firearm in a suicide attempt,” said Mendelson, “and that, of course, is by far the most lethal means of dying by suicide.”
Most West Virginia residents are isolated in rural communities and may face challenges accessing mental health resources. If you or someone you know needs help, call or text the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Mendelson said several factors contribute to increased thoughts of self-harm in this age group.
“We’re talking about factors,” said Mendelson, “like severe physical illness, pain, financial pressures, isolation, often the death of a spouse, a lack of mental healthcare.”
He said he hopes the data can help destigmatize the issue and encourage more families to have conversations about mental health.
“For the many tens, hundreds, thousands of folks who have had their lives touched by this issue,” said Mendelson, “they’re not alone, that this is far more common than than they may realize.”
According to the National Council on Aging, red flag behaviors for older adults that may be thinking about suicide include a loss of interest in social activities, giving away items or changing their will, and ceasing self-care or stopping medications, among other changes.
