Alarming rise in US Hispanic suicides sparks concern

The suicide rate among Hispanic people in the United States has risen dramatically in recent years, with a particularly sharp increase among children. 

Community leaders and mental health experts are joining forces to understand why more people are taking their own lives and what can be done to prevent the disturbing trend.

“We couldn’t wait for research,” said Gruner, founder and president of the Coalición de Líderes Latinos. “We wanted to do something about it.”

​Factors that are causing the suicide trend include cultural differences, language barriers, and the extra stress Hispanic youth can face.

The number of Hispanic people in the United States who die by suicide has been going up quickly, especially among young people. The situation has caused concerns to health professionals and community leaders alike. 

There are a few reasons why this might be happening. Some Hispanic families have trouble getting mental health care because they don't speak English fluently, or because there aren't enough therapists who speak Spanish. 

Kids in such families may also have extra stress because they're expected to translate for their parents or help take care of the family. 

“Being able to talk about painful things in a language that you are comfortable with is a really specific type of healing,” said Alejandra Vargas, a bilingual Spanish program coordinator for the Suicide Prevention Center at Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services in Los Angeles.

“When we answer the calls in Spanish, you can hear that relief on the other end,” she said. “That, ‘Yes, they’re going to understand me.’”

Suicides among Hispanics in Georgia have risen sharply in recent years. The state Department of Public Health reports a 55% increase from 2018 to 2022.

“Our kids are interpreters, they pay bills, go to medical appointments,” putting additional stress and anxiety on them, said Belisa Urbina, CEO of Ser Familia.

On top of that, some Hispanic families worry about their immigration status, which can make them feel anxious and uncertain. 

There are things being done to help. A new national phone number, 988 has been issued by the US authorities. The helpline can connect people in crisis with counselors, and it now has a text and chat option in Spanish. 

Some community leaders are also starting support groups where people can talk openly about their problems. 

Experts say it's important to talk about suicide honestly, even though it can be scary. If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, there is help available. You can call or text 988.