Who Is at Highest Risk of Suicide: What the Numbers Show

Men also see doctors less often than women, so these problems can go unnoticed for years.

By Neil Solomon · 2 min read

This article is about a hard subject. If you are thinking of ending your life, you could call or text 988 in the United States, or call Línea de la Vida at 800 911 2000 in Mexico. Both are meant for exactly this moment.

The numbers

In the United States in 2024, the CDC reports about 22.3 suicides per 100,000 men and 5.6 per 100,000 women. Men die this way about four times as often.

The rate is highest in men 75 and older.

What we do not know

No trial has tested whether treating low testosterone lowers suicide. In studies that compare people who attempted suicide with those who did not, the testosterone findings are mixed. Low testosterone is linked to low mood, but a direct line to suicide has not been shown.

What often goes with the numbers

Loss of work, living alone, money trouble and ill health show up again and again. Men also see doctors less often than women, so these problems can go unnoticed for years.

Asking directly

Many people worry that asking someone whether they are thinking of suicide could plant the idea. Two research reviews, one of studies up to 2014 and one pooling 13 studies, found no increase in suicidal thoughts after people were asked. One review suggested that talking about it may lower them.