Source: Health Policy Institute of Ohio
The number of suicide deaths in Ohio declined for the first time in three years in 2023, decreasing about 1% from 2022’s numbers, according to new data from the Ohio Department of Health (Source: “Ohio Suicides Decreased in 2023 for First Time in 3 Years, According to Department,” Mahoning Matters, January 24, 2025).
According to the 2023 Ohio Suicide Report, Ohio deaths by suicides dropped to 1,777 in 2023 – 20 fewer than 2022. Ohio’s decrease compares favorably to national numbers. Across the country, suicide rates declined by less than 1% last year.
White non-Hispanic males continued to lead all groups for suicide in 2023, accounting for 68.7% of all suicide deaths (1,441). Other key findings of the 2023 report include: Black non-Hispanic females and White non-Hispanic females who had the largest decreases in the rate of suicide deaths, both decreasing by 6%. Ohioans ages 45-54 was the age group with the highest rate of suicide deaths (20.1 per 100,000 population). Firearm was the mechanism used in over half (58.0%) of all suicide deaths (1,031). The number of suicide deaths by drug poisoning increased by 11%. (Rates are calculated as deaths per 100,000 population.)
In January 2024, Governor Mike DeWine announced the release of the 2024-26 Suicide Prevention Plan for Ohio, which is a collaborative effort of Gov. DeWine’s RecoveryOhio initiative, the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS), and the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. The plan serves as a blueprint to mobilize and align state efforts to prevent suicide.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org 24/7 for free and confidential support.
