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(Photo by Quentin Young / Colorado Newsline)
New data from the New Mexico Department of Health shows a 9% rise in suicide deaths in the state last year. According to a news release on Tuesday, the state had 512 suicides in 2024, 42 more than in 2023.
Firearms factored into 60% of the suicide deaths in New Mexico. The health department provides free gun locks.
The new data coincides with National Suicide Prevention Month in September. “Suicide is preventable, but it requires all of us to act,” Clarie Miller, lead suicide prevention coordinator for NMDOH, said in a statement. “Whether it’s learning the warning signs, knowing how to connect someone to 988, or simply checking in on friends and family — every action matters.”
According to the 2024 data, white New Mexicans had the highest rate of suicide death (29.4 deaths per 100,000 residents); followed by American Indian Alaskan Native (26.2 deaths per 100,000 residents). In addition, the Hispanic suicide rate increased by 27% over the past 10 years.
The department in January reported that New Mexico’s suicide rates for women and Indigenous people had dropped steeply in 2023, and that the overall suicide rate for the state had dropped by 9% that year.
The health department also issued the following information and guidance:
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Call or text 988 if you or someone you care about is in crisis. The New Mexico 988 Crisis and Access line offers free, confidential, non-judgmental support in English and Spanish. For more information, visit nmcrisisline.com.
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Veterans can call the Veteran’s Crisis Line operated by the Department of Veteran’s Services to connect service members and veterans in crisis. Dial 800-273-8255 and press 1 to talk to someone or send a text message to 838255.
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Store firearms safely. Contact NMDOH to order a free gun lock to prevent firearm injury.
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Acknowledging and talking about suicide with others can reduce suicidal ideation.
Source NM has pending requests for more information with the health department, and will update this story.
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