HIGHER-RISK POPULATIONS

Suicide Among American Indians

Suicide has long been and remains a devastating, all-too-frequent event among American Indian families and communities.

From high rates of poverty to unemployment, people living on reservations face several challenges that can lead to substance use and mental health-related challenges, including suicide. 

In South Dakota, suicide was the 5th leading cause of death for Native Americans in 2023.

American Indian communities also uphold distinctive cultural traditions that can serve as protective factors against the risk of suicide: a sense of belonging and community, a strong tribal, familial and spiritual bond and frequent opportunities to discuss issues with family and friends. For many Native individuals, their culture can help ground them and provide support to help navigate emotional trauma.

Reach for Life

The Reach for Life campaign was created to form a stronger connection with American Indian communities in order to remove stigmas and promote support services.

Other High-Risk Populations

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College Students

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Farmers and Ranchers

Farmers and Ranchers

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