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State suicide deaths decrease 19%
SANTA FE – New Mexico’s suicide rate dropped by 19% between 2024 and 2025, according to provisional data from the New Mexico Department of Health – a sign increased education and prevention measures about the issue may be paying off.
Data indicates social connectedness, higher education attainment and housing security were associated with a reduced risk of suicide.
While the news is welcome, in 2025 suicide was the 9th leading cause of death for New Mexicans and the second leading cause of death for New Mexico youth ages 12 to 17. Most suicide deaths in 2025 involved a firearm.
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and Sept. 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day, making it an important time to raise awareness about suicide prevention and the resources available to help.
“Suicide is preventable and you can help save a life by learning the warning signs,” said Gina DeBlassie, cabinet secretary for the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH). “Talking openly about suicide can help reduce stigma and suicidal ideation while letting people know you care.”
There are ways to help prevent suicide. NMDOH recommends:
- Call or text 988 if you or someone you care about is in crisis. The New Mexico 988 Crisis and Access line offers free, confidential, non-judgmental support in English and Spanish. For more information, visit nmcrisisline.com.
- Veterans can call the Veteran’s Crisis Line operated by the Department of Veteran’s Services to connect service members and veterans in crisis. Dial 800-273-8255 and press 1 to talk to someone or send a text message to 838255.
- For LGBTQ+ support, text or phone from Glisten.org or the Jason Foundation and The Trevor Project.
- Store firearms safely. Contact NMDOH to order a free gun lock to prevent firearm injury.
- The Community Health Education and Resiliency Program at the Albuquerque Area Indian Health Board provides free training to equip individuals to respond to mental health challenges. Trainings can be requested by filling out a request form through the Albuquerque Area Indian Health Board.
To view Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s proclamation honoring National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, visit NMDOH’s Suicide Prevention Programs page.
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