CDC: Michigan's suicide rate rises sharply

A new report finds Michigan’s suicide rate increased by a third over the last 20 years. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports between 1999 and 2016 Michigan’s suicide rate increased by 33 percent. That’s slightly higher than the 30 percent rate of increase nationally. The increase was even higher in more than 20 other states. North Dakota posted a nearly 60 percent increase in suicides during the past two decades. Only Nevada saw its suicide rate decline since 1999. The CDC report says more than half of people who commit suicide have no known mental health condition. Relationship issues, substance abuse and health problems were the commonly cited factors. The CDC says states need to do a better job of identifying people at risk of suicide , teach coping and problem-solving skills, and provide coordinated mental and physical healthcare. If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (En