Suicide Rates Rising Among Gen Z Black Hispanic Men Southern Midwest

Suicide is now the leading cause of death among Generation Z, with rates increasing significantly compared to Millennials at the same age, particularly among Black and Hispanic men in Southern and Midwestern states. Experts attribute this rise to various factors including untreated depression, social media bullying, economic despair, and cultural barriers to seeking mental health treatment. Efforts to address the crisis include community-based interventions like those led by Rodney Harris at the University of North Carolina, who engages barbers and churches to reach individuals before crises develop. Despite ongoing debate about root causes, there is consensus on the need for accessible mental health resources and breaking down stigma around seeking help. National resources such as the crisis lifeline at 988 provide vital support for those in need. The steady pace of Gen Z suicides highlights an urgent public health challenge requiring sustained attention and innovative outreach.