NM shows decrease in suicide deaths

The New Mexico Department of Health last week reported 515 New Mexico residents died by suicide in 2019, down 4% from the 535 recorded in 2018.

There was a slight decrease in suicide deaths by women and among non-Hispanic whites from 2018 to 2019.

The number of suicide deaths by poisoning went down, but suicide deaths by firearms, hanging and falls remained consistent to the findings in 2018.

More than 48,000 men, women, and children died by suicide in the U.S. in 2018.

“The decline in suicide deaths in our state is encouraging, but we must recognize the devastating toll these deaths take on families, loved ones and the community,” acting Department of Health Secretary Billy Jimenez said.

“Suicide can be prevented and the Department of Health is committed to working with our statewide partners to create a standard of care that recognizes when a patient seen in an emergency room setting is in need of a behavioral health follow-up. We know outreach works.

“When people are having thoughts of suicide, they feel relief after someone talks with them in a caring way. People are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking with someone who listens without judgment. Acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase ideation. We want people to know there is judgment free help available,” Jimenez added.

Marisa Maez, communications director for the Department of Health, acknowledged Wednesday the mental and emotional toll the COVID-19 pandemic has had on New Mexicans.

“We are working with 10 other state agencies and stakeholders to get the word out about the statewide crisis and access line. We have created special call lines for front line workers due to their increased risk of emotional distress. We are putting together a public service announcement for radio, social media and television utilizing New Mexicans willing to share their lived experience to provide hope and help in addressing the potential struggles.

“We have also implemented ‘Mental Health Mondays a Path to Wellness’ campaign that will be shared with Children’s Cabinet, Governor's office media, Indian Affairs, Department of Health, Early childhood and care, Children, Youth and Families, Human Services, Public Education and Higher Education,” Maez wrote in an email.

Maez stated there was not up-to-date data on the number of suicides in 2020 because of ongoing investigations by the Office of the Medical Investigator and law enforcement agencies.

For immediate assistance with all mental health concerns, as well as connection with resources, call (855) 662-7474 or go to nmcrisisline.com.

For more information, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255 or text HOME to 741 741.