New CDC Data Show Youth Suicide Rates Are Declining — but Our Work Is Far From Over

Newly released data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a measure of hope: Although suicide rates were largely stable the past several years, rates among young people ages 10 to 24 declined in 2024 compared to the peak rates observed in 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At JED, we closely analyzed national suicide mortality data from 2021 to 2024 by sex and across age groups, race, and ethnicity. We found significant declines among young people ages 10 to 14, 15 to 19, and 20 to 24 — and overall across ages 10 to 24. The declines were driven largely by reductions in suicide rates among boys and young men, where decreases were observed across every age group. Rates among girls remained statistically unchanged.

We also saw significant overall declines among non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native, white, and Asian youth ages 10 to 24, as well as among Black teens ages 15 to 19.

Although we welcome the declines, suicide rates among young people remain much too high. 

We are still facing a youth mental health crisis, and troubling disparities persist. Suicide rates among non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native youth are consistently very high despite declines. Also, for the first time, suicide rates among Black young adults ages 20 to 24 surpassed those of their white peers — a concerning shift given historically lower rates among this group. The gap between Black and white teens ages 15 to 19 has also narrowed as Black youth rates have increased over time.

Firearms remain the leading cause of suicide death among young people, accounting for more than half of youth suicides. Firearm suicide rates among 10- to 24-year-olds peaked in 2021 and declined slightly by 2024, but not equitably. Rates declined among non-Hispanic white youth, but not among their Black peers. Firearm suicide rates among Black 10- to 24-year-olds surpassed those of white youth for the first time in 2022 and remained high in 2023 and 2024.

These are not just statistics. They reflect young lives, families, and communities. And they remind us why JED’s mission to protect emotional health and prevent suicide among teens and young adults has never been more critical.

Using Momentum for Meaningful Change

Declines in suicide rates show that prevention is possible, but our work is not over. Millions of young people continue to struggle with hopelessness, despair, isolation, and suicidal thoughts. Suicide mortality data represents only the most tragic outcome of a much larger crisis of emotional distress.

At JED, we know that prevention works, and that it requires a comprehensive, sustained approach. We partner with K-12 school districts, high schools, colleges, and community-based organizations to strengthen mental health systems, equip young people with life skills that build resilience, and mobilize communities.

JED also promotes safe and responsible firearm storage and other evidence-based interventions designed to reduce access to the most lethal means of suicide. Because suicide attempts are often impulsive, increasing time and distance between a person in crisis and a lethal method can save lives. Interventions include safe handling and secure storage of firearms, counseling on access to lethal means by clinicians and social service providers, and legislation that ensures that parents and families with children at risk for suicide are offered education on firearm safety.

Your Partnership Saves Lives

This new data shows us that progress is possible, but sustained progress requires sustained commitment. Our work and mission are more urgent than ever as disparities widen for some groups, firearm suicide rates remain among the highest in our nation’s history, and so many young people still feel disconnected and alone.

Your support makes it possible for JED to expand our reach, deepen our partnerships, and strengthen the comprehensive systems that protect young lives. Together we can build on this moment not only to continue to reduce suicide rates from historic highs, but also to create a future in which every young person has the support, connection, and hope they deserve. We are grateful to stand with you in this lifesaving work.