African Americans and the increasing rates of suicide

The Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) reports, although suicide rates are lower among blacks than in whites, suicide and other mental health problems are important issues affecting the black population.
The Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) reports, although suicide rates are lower among blacks than in whites, suicide and other mental health problems are important issues affecting the black population.

African Americans and the increasing rates of suicide

BY DANITA A. DYESS

The suicide rate of black boys is increasing. While this may not come as a shocking surprise, the factors contributing to suicide are complex.

The recent suicides of Kate Spade, iconic fashion designer, and Anthony Bourdain, celebrity chef and television personality, have sparked a national discussion, especially in the African American community.

The statistics are startling. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) reports the following:

  • On average, there are 123 suicides per day.
  • Men are 3 times more likely to commit suicide than women.
  • Each year, 44,965 Americans die by suicide.
  • In 2016, the highest U.S. suicide rate was (15.17) among whites and (6.03) among blacks.

Suicide is linked to culture. Blacks are more likely to experience hardships such as discrimination, unemployment, housing issues, and violence. The Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) reports, although suicide rates are lower among blacks than in whites, suicide and other mental health problems are important issues affecting the black population.

Segments or subgroups of the black community are more susceptible to suicide. A recent trend indicates that black boys are experiencing an increased rate of suicide.

According to a JAMA Pediatrics article published in May 2018, suicide rates increased among black children aged 5 to 11 years from 1.36 to 2.54 per million between the years 2008 and 2012.

Moreover, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth between the ages of 10 and 34, and the fourth leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 35 and 54, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

Suicide is not caused by one thing. Abuse, chronic medical conditions, addiction, mental illness, bullying at school or in cyberspace are contributing factors.

Dr. Huberta Jackson-Lowman, president of The Association of Black Psychologists said, the role of media and the impact of exposure to media which regularly contains stories of young black men being killed or assaulted by police must also be examined.

According to SPRC, suicide prevention efforts should be respectful and responsive to a group’s beliefs, preferences, cultural and linguistic needs. These efforts should also include community leaders, pastors, and other respected members.

Parents tend to avoid a conversation about suicide. Ironically, a dialogue about suicide could be a major preventative measure. According to the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health, listening to teenagers and paying attention to covert messages are key factors in the prevention of suicide. Providing a stable environment even if parents are going through a divorce is also crucial. The organization also advises participating in your child’s activities. Additionally, parents should speak to other parents and friends of their child since youth often talk about suicide with their peers.

According to AFSP, “Ninety percent of people who die by suicide have a mental disorder at the time of their deaths.” Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and lithium have been proven to be highly effective. Cognitive behavioral therapy is also used. Religion also plays a role. Dr. Huberta Jackson-Lowman said, “Religion has been found to be a protective factor with regard to suicide.”

Suicide is preventable. For more information, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

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