Suicide on the rise: the impact of isolation during the COVID pandemic

DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) — Since 2021, studies show suicide rates have increased which is especially true for America’s youth.

According to the CDC, since the end of 2018, there has been a steady decrease in the number of suicide deaths. That year saw a peak in suicide rates, with the highest recorded rates in modern history. An average of 4,028 people were lost each month.

Trends reflected numbers continuing to drop until the pandemic was in full swing. According to the CDC, in 2021, suicide rates increased for males across the board, especially for ages 15 to 24.

Carol Griesdorn, American Foundation Suicide Prevention Ohio Chapter Board Chair and Loss and Healing Team member says she’s seen the lasting effects of the pandemic.

“The pandemic has really isolated a lot of people, and has caused people to go inside themselves and feel like there’s no hope,” said Griesdorn.

In Ohio, suicide is rated as the third leading cause of death for young adults ages 18 to 24, and the second for those aged 25 to 34.

Some experts say the pandemic worsened already existing symptoms for many individuals.

Jay Wainscott is the Suicide Prevention Program Manager at the Dayton VA Medical Center. He describes the inability to meet with those needing resources and services during the pandemic as a stronghold, highlighting that isolation and separation worsened suffering for many.

“The pandemic, you know, in my clinical, you know, expertise, it just really exasperated symptoms that individuals already had,” said Wainscott.

If you or someone you know is in a crisis, call 988 to reach the suicide and crisis hotline. Wainscott says Veterans should dial 988 and press 1 to reach VA-specific support.

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