Young adult suicide rate spiked in Colorado from 2014 to 2024
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Suicide deaths rose sharply among young adults in Colorado and most states from 2014 to 2024, a new analysis finds.
Why it matters: The numbers underscore the toll of the country's mental health crisis — just as the Trump administration cuts funding for programs designed to help vulnerable groups, like LGBTQ+ kids.
- Studies show these children are at higher risk of self-harm compared to heterosexual youth.
By the numbers: The suicide rate for Coloradans aged 18–27 increased 19% over that 10-year period, in line with the national average, per a new analysis of CDC data from the nonprofit newsroom Stateline.
Stunning stat: Colorado reported 26.3 suicides per 100,000 people — the fourth-highest rate in the country for the age group, the analysis finds.
Caveat: The longer-term study may not reflect more recent potential gains in local and national suicide prevention efforts, says clinical psychologist at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Ian Stanley, who specializes in suicide prevention.
Case in point: Colorado's public health department in August said the suicide rate among people ages 10–18 fell to its lowest level since 2007.
- Meanwhile, a different report from the CDC published last month shows U.S. suicide rates among people ages 10–24 declined by 7% from 2018 to 2023 — a significant drop, the report says.
What they're saying: "There's no single one cause of suicide, no matter where you are, no matter who you are, no matter what age group," Stanley tells us.
What we're watching: The Supreme Court's recent skepticism over Colorado's conversion therapy ban is worrying local LGBTQ+ youth advocates.
- After losing federal funding, Colorado's 988 crisis line affirms it's committed to helping people "regardless of gender or sexual orientation."
The latest: 13% of reports made to Colorado's student safety tip line Safe2Tell in July were related to suicide threats, per the most recent data.
What's next: The Safe2Tell report for the 2024–25 school year will be released next month, a Colorado attorney general's office spokesperson tells us.
If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Ayuda disponible en español.