Spokane, Wash. – The Washington State Department of Health released its 2025 State Suicide Report, showing that at least 1,352 Washington residents died by suicide last year. The rate rose to 14.3 deaths per 100,000 people, up from 13.7 in 2024, though it remains below the 2017 high of 16.9.
Key Findings
Assistant Secretary Michele Roberts of the DOH’s Prevention and Community Health Division emphasized the human toll, noting that each statistic represents a child, parent, friend, or neighbor. She said the department will continue working with tribal partners, schools, families, and communities to ensure help is accessible.
Compared with the national average of 13.7 deaths per 100,000, Washington’s rate is higher, but lower than neighboring states Oregon, Idaho and Alaska.
Age and Demographic Trends
Adults 65 and older experienced the largest increase, climbing from 19.1 deaths per 100,000 in 2024 to 23.3 in 2025. Youth aged 10‑17 also saw a notable rise, as did residents of rural areas, American Indian/Alaskan Native people, and Hispanic people.
Firearms accounted for 54% of suicide deaths in 2025, while poisoning was linked to more than 80% of intentional self‑harm hospitalizations.
Geographic and Gender Differences
The report indicates that rural counties tend to have higher suicide rates than urban counties, though urban counties record a greater total number of deaths. Male suicide rates remain substantially higher than female rates, yet women have higher hospitalization rates for self‑harm.
American Indian/Alaskan Native people have the highest suicide rate per 100,000, while White people account for the greatest number of deaths overall. In terms of hospitalizations, American Indian/Alaskan Native people lead, followed by Black people.
Response and Resources
Roberts stressed that suicide is preventable through stronger human connections, targeted support for at‑risk communities, and improved data collection. The department plans to expand outreach with tribal partners, schools, families, and community organizations.
For readers seeking help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline is reachable by calling or texting 988, or via online chat at 988lifeline.org.
Full Report
The complete 2025 State Suicide Report and the department’s comments are available through the Washington State Department of Health’s recent press release.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
