Alarming rise in U.S. Hispanic suicides raises concerns

In recent years, the suicide rate among Hispanics in the United States has increased dramatically, especially among children.

Community leaders and mental health experts are joining forces to understand why more people are taking their own lives and what can be done to prevent this disturbing trend.

“We can’t wait to do the research,” said Gruner, founder and president of the Latino Alliance. “We want to do something about it.”

Factors contributing to the suicidal trend include cultural differences, language barriers and additional stress Hispanic young people may face.

The number of Latinos dying by suicide in the United States has been rising rapidly, especially among young people. The situation has caused concern among health professionals and community leaders.

This happens for several reasons. Some Hispanic families have trouble accessing mental health care because they don’t speak English fluently or because there aren’t enough Spanish-speaking therapists.

Children in these families may also experience additional stress because they need to translate for their parents or help care for the family.

“Being able to talk about painful things in a language you’re familiar with really helps,” said Alejandra Vargas, bilingual Spanish program coordinator at the Suicide Prevention Center at Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services in Los Angeles. A special form of healing.”

“When we answered the phone in Spanish, you could hear the other person sighing in relief,” she said. “‘Yes, they’ll understand me.'”

Suicide rates among Georgia’s Latinos have increased dramatically in recent years. The state Department of Public Health reports that number will increase by 55% from 2018 to 2022.

“Our children work as interpreters, they pay bills, go to the doctor,” which creates additional stress and anxiety for them, said Belisa Urbina, CEO of Ser Familia.

On top of that, some Hispanic families worry about their immigration status, which can leave them feeling anxious and uncertain.

Several steps are being taken to help. US authorities have released a new national phone number, 988. The helpline connects people in crisis with counselors and now offers Spanish text and chat options.

Some community leaders have also set up support groups where people can talk openly about their problems.

Experts say it’s important to talk honestly about suicide, even though it can be scary. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, there is help available. You can call or text 988.