Suicide is the 8th leading cause of death in the US, nearly 31,000 deaths in 1996.

Suicide accounts for 50% more deaths than murder.

530,000 suicide attempts per year in the US.

Suicide rate up 14% among 15-24 year olds (third leading cause of death in this age group).

Suicide are among blacks doubled between 1980 and 1996.

Suicide rate for Native Americans is 50% higher than the national rate.

White men over 84 are the most likely to commit suicide.

Firearms cause most suicide deaths: 59% overall, and responsible for 96% of the suicides in the 15-24 year old age group.

Percentage of suicide deaths by age group:

a) 5-19 = 7%

b) 20-34 = 27%

c) 35-49 = 31%

d) 50-64 = 16%

e) over 64 = 19%

(sources: U.S. Public Health Service, National Center for Health Statistics, Office of the Surgeon General)