Description of Indicator
This indicator measures the suicide death rate per 100,000 residents in the three counties and Pennsylvania. The death rate is adjusted for age, and suicide is defined as causing intentional self-harm.
Why is it important?
The suicidal death indicator helps contextualize and assess the extent of demand for mental or behavioral health resources and interventions. Higher mortality rates from intentional self-harm can be prevented by supporting at-risk residents, such as those with histories of trauma and isolation.
How is the region performing?
The suicide rates in the three counties and Pennsylvania fluctuated from 2013 to 2023. Overall, Lackawanna County’s rate decreased from 15.4 to 13.0. Wayne County’s rate fell from 23.8 to 14.9 in 2022 (2023 data was unavailable for Wayne County). Conversely, Luzerne County’s rate increased from 15.3 to 20.2. Pennsylvania’s rate also rose from 13.3 to 14.1. Rates in Northeastern Pennsylvania are typically higher than the Commonwealth’s rate.