When we think about mental health, it’s easy to overlook the struggles that young males face. Society often portrays men as tough, unemotional, and invincible. However, the truth is that many young adult males are silently battling feelings of hopelessness and despair.
Suicides among young men have increased at an alarmingly high rate. In fact, men are four times as likely to die by suicide than women. It’s critical for everyone—friends, family, and communities—to recognize the signs and symptoms that a young male might be in crisis.
Whether you’ve noticed a change in behavior, sudden mood swings, or just a feeling that something isn’t quite right, having a conversation with a loved one can open the door to getting them the help they need. Treatment with a mental health professional can offer young men a safe place to share their struggles, learn healthy coping strategies, and begin to heal.
What You’ll Learn
- What are the statistics on suicide in young men?
- What’s causing high suicide rates among young adult males?
- What are the risk factors for suicidal behavior in men?
- How can loved ones support young men who may be struggling with their mental health?
Quick Read
Alarmingly, suicide rates among young men have risen significantly, with men being four times more likely to die by suicide than women. It’s vital to be able to recognize signs of distress in young males and encourage open conversations to facilitate access to mental health support.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a 30 percent increase in male suicide rates since 2010, with certain racial and ethnic groups, such as American Indian/Alaska Native and non-Hispanic white populations, facing higher risks. Additionally, young male veterans and transgender individuals also show alarming suicide rates, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.
Several factors contribute to rising suicide rates among young men, including untreated mental health issues, problematic substance use, social isolation, and societal expectations that discourage vulnerability. Life stressors such as academic pressures and financial insecurity further exacerbate these challenges. The availability of lethal means, such as firearms, also increases the likelihood of fatal suicide attempts.
To support young men, friends and family can try practical strategies, such as initiating conversations, listening without judgment, and encouraging them to seek professional help. PrairieCare offers evidence-based treatment for young men struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and other conditions that can increase the risk of suicide.
Statistics About Suicide in Young Men
Unfortunately, suicide is a leading cause of death in the US among both men and women. According to the latest suicide data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 49,000 people died by suicide in 2023, which equates to one death every 11 minutes.
Overall, youth and young adults ages 10–24 years account for 15 percent of all suicide deaths. And suicide is the second leading cause of death for this age group.
For young adult males, suicides have been increasing at an alarming rate, and CDC data shows they are at four times greater risk than women. Since 2010, male suicide rates have increased by 30 percent.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Young Male Suicide Numbers
Males make up 50 percent of the population, but nearly 80 percent of all suicides. While suicide is a nationwide problem for nearly all demographics, some racial and ethnic groups, geographic locations, and occupations are at higher risk than others:
- Suicide is the third leading cause of death for Black Americans ages 10–24
- For both men and women, American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN) and non-Hispanic white populations have the highest risk of suicide
- AIAN men have roughly one to two times the suicide rate of white men
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death among veterans under age 45
- Suicide rates were highest among male veterans ages 18–34 (55 per 100,000)
- In a national study, 40 percent of transgender adults reported having made a suicide attempt, and 92 percent of these individuals reported having attempted suicide before the age of 25
At-Risk Geographic Locations and Occupations
Research shows that those who live in rural areas are more at risk for suicide than urban populations, and some occupations carry a higher risk of suicide than others, particularly for males. The highest suicide rates are found in:
- Mining, quarrying, oil/gas extraction
- Construction
- Other services
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting
- Transportation and warehousing
What Is Causing Rising Rates of Suicide in Young Men?
Why are so many young men dying by suicide? There is not just one cause; rather, mental health, social dynamics, and cultural influences all play a part. Here are some of the most common factors leading to male suicides:
Failure to Seek Mental Healthcare
Many young adult males struggle with untreated mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Unfortunately, the idea that mental health treatment is “weak” or “not manly” often prevents males from seeking help or discussing their feelings openly.
Problem Substance Use
There is a strong correlation between substance use and suicidal behavior. Young men may turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism, which can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness and increase impulsivity.
Social Isolation
Young adult males may experience significant social isolation, especially during transitional life phases (e.g., moving away for college or starting a new job). Not having friends and family close by can lead to feelings of loneliness and despair.
Cultural/Societal Expectations
Societal norms often dictate that men should be strong and self-reliant, which can discourage them from expressing vulnerability or seeking help. Social media can also perpetuate the pressure to live a certain lifestyle, which can cause young men to feel “not good enough.”
Life Stressors
Academic pressures, job insecurity, financial stress, and relationship challenges can put tremendous strain on young men. Without proper stress management and coping skills, young adults can spiral into hopelessness and despair.
Access to Means
In many cases, young men have easier access to lethal means, such as firearms, which increases the likelihood of suicide attempts being fatal. Men are twice as likely to own guns as women, according to Gallup research.
Previous Trauma
Experiences of trauma, including childhood abuse or bullying, can have long-lasting effects on mental health and increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Lack of Support Systems
Young men may have fewer established support networks compared to women, making it harder for them to seek help or talk about their struggles. A study by the Survey Center on American Life found that only 26 percent of men have six or more close friends, and 17 percent of men have zero close friends.
Risk Factors for Male Suicide
Depression may manifest differently in men than in women, which is why loved ones and even physicians may overlook the signs that they are in crisis. Instead of sadness and fatigue, men are more likely to present signs of depression with irritability, anger, and risk-taking behavior. The pressure to conform to societal ideals of masculinity often discourages young men from sharing their mental health struggles or seeking treatment from a mental health professional.
There is no single cause for suicide in males. However, several personal struggles or life stressors can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair. Here are some risk factors for suicide in young adult males:
- Previous suicide attempt(s)
- History of depression and/or other mental health conditions
- Serious illness/chronic pain
- Criminal/legal problems
- Financial struggles/job loss
- Impulsive or aggressive tendencies
- Death of a loved one or other serious tragedy
- Problem substance use
- History of trauma/abuse
- Relationship issues (romantic, friendships, family dynamics)
- Bullying (in person or via cyberbullying)
- Access to lethal means of suicide (weapons, medication, etc.)
- Stigma around men’s mental health and seeking professional support
Suicide Signs and Warnings
Recognizing the signs of suicidal thoughts or behaviors in men is critical for providing support and intervention. Here are some common signs to look for:
Things to Listen For
- Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or in unbearable pain
- Expressing feelings of being a burden to others
- Mentioning thoughts of wanting to die, wishing they were dead, or that things would be better off without them
Behavioral Changes
- Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities they once enjoyed
- Significant changes in mood, such as increased irritability or anger
- Engaging in risky or self-destructive behaviors, such as substance use or reckless driving
Emotional Signs
- Persistent sadness or depression
- Expressing feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or despair
- Increased anxiety or agitation
Physical Changes
- Neglecting personal hygiene or appearance
- Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or sleeping too much)
- Unexplained physical complaints (e.g., headaches, stomachaches)
- Sudden weight loss or gain
Additionally, friends and/or coworkers may notice a significant decline in work or academic performance, as well as an increase in missed days. Giving away possessions, saying goodbye to people, or researching self-harm or suicide methods are all actions that require immediate intervention.
If you observe any of these warning signs, take the following actions:
- Do not leave the person alone.
- Remove anything that could be used in a suicide attempt, including firearms, alcohol, drugs, razors, or other sharp objects.
- Call the US National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.
- Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional.
At PrairieCare, we work directly with young people and their families through our Family First admissions program. This means you can call us directly, schedule an assessment, and get help without needing to visit the ER first, depending on the patient’s immediate needs.
If you’re under 35 or caring for someone who is, and need immediate support, please call 952-826-8424, and our compassionate team of experts will recommend next steps, regardless of your situation.
Safety Plan and Prevention Strategies
If you suspect that a young adult male in your life may be experiencing suicidal thoughts, it’s important to approach the situation with care and compassion. Remember that men are less likely to share about mental health openly, so practice patience and understanding as you navigate the conversation.
Here are 10 ways you can support a friend or loved one:
1. Start the Conversation
Openly and gently express your concerns about their behavior. Use “I” statements to communicate your feelings, such as “I’ve noticed you seem down lately, and I’m worried about you.” This can create a safe space for your loved one to open up and share what’s going on in their life.
2. Be a Good Listener
Allow him to express his thoughts and feelings without judgment. Let him know that you care, you are there for him, and it’s okay to feel what he’s feeling. Regularly check in and spend time together, whether through phone calls, texts, or just meeting for coffee. You may not have all the answers, and that’s okay. Just listening is powerful.
3. Practice Patience
Understand that your friend or loved one may not be ready to talk or seek help immediately. Be patient and continue to offer your support without pushing too hard.
4. Educate Yourself
Review the signs of suicidal thoughts and behaviors mentioned in this article, and review other trusted resources on mental health and suicide. This knowledge can help you provide informed support and guidance, as well as identify any immediate warning signs.
5. Suggest Healthy Coping Strategies
Help him identify healthy ways to cope with stress and emotions, such as engaging in physical activity, exploring creative outlets, or practicing mindfulness. You may have noticed that he isn’t involved in activities he once enjoyed, so encourage him to reengage in those activities.
6. Encourage Connection
In addition to retreating from once-loved activities, you may notice your loved one isolating from friends and family. Encourage him to reconnect with people who care about him. There are numerous positive mental health benefits associated with male friendships.
7. Create a Safety Plan
If you reach a comfortable place in the conversation and your friend or loved one is open to it, work together to create a safety plan. This includes warning signs, coping strategies, and emergency contacts. This plan can help him feel more prepared in moments of crisis.
8. Maintain Confidentiality (But Take Talk of Suicide Seriously)
Respect that what he’s sharing with you is private and confidential. Any breach of this trust can derail someone’s effort to seek professional help. However, take any talk of suicide seriously. If he expresses suicidal thoughts or intentions, encourage him to seek immediate help and, if necessary, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline.
9. Encourage Professional Help
Suggest that he talk to a mental health professional. Offer to help him find a therapist or treatment facility, and if he’s open to it, offer to take him to the appointment. This can be an intimidating or scary next step for anyone struggling with mental health. Having a supportive person alongside can make all the difference.
10. Follow Up
Continue to check in on your loved one regularly after your initial conversation. Let him know that you’re still there for him and that his well-being matters to you.
Healing at PrairieCare
At PrairieCare, young men can begin to heal from the trauma and mental health issues that lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. We offer a comprehensive, whole-person approach that utilizes evidence-based treatment modalities. By participating in individualized therapy, our patients learn effective coping strategies and gain insights into their emotions and behaviors.
The supportive, group environment at PrairieCare fosters connection and community, providing young men with a safe space to share their experiences and build resilience alongside others who understand their struggles. We offer a full continuum of care at locations throughout Minnesota, ensuring that people can access the mental health support they need to heal and thrive.
If you or a loved one is looking for outpatient therapy options, request a no-cost mental health screening by clicking the button below and filling out the form on the right. Our team will contact you within one business day to begin the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common reason for male suicide?
- There is no single cause for suicide in males; however, there are several personal struggles or life stressors that can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair. A history of trauma/abuse, financial struggles or job loss, and problematic substance use are some common contributors to male suicide.
Which gender has the highest suicide rate?
- Men are four times as likely to die by suicide than women. Additionally, American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN) and non-Hispanic white populations have the highest risk of suicide.
Why are male suicide rates higher?
- Traditional male stereotypes paint men as strong and invincible, unable to show emotion or share personal struggles. In combination with mental health stigmas that still exist, this often keeps males from seeking professional help. Additionally, males are more likely to use lethal means, such as firearms, which they tend to have greater access to than women.
What are the signs of depression or suicide in men?
- Men often present signs of depression differently than women; therefore, it is frequently overlooked by family, friends, and even physicians. Signs of depression or suicide in men could include an increase in anger, irritability, and risk-taking behavior, such as substance use.
What are the 4 Ps of suicide assessment?
- The P4 screener assesses suicide risk by asking about the “4 Ps”: past suicide attempts, a plan, probability of completing suicide, and preventive factors.
Sources
- 2024 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report
- CDC
- American Institute for Boys and Men
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
- The Trevor Project
- US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health