Suicide Rates by Lethal Means and Occupational Group Among US Workers, 2013–2019

Abstract

Objective – The aim of the study was to calculate rates of suicide by lethal means and occupational group during 2013–2019 for US workers. Methods – This descriptive study included suicide rates for workers 24–65 years of age which were calculated using decedents from the National Violent Death Reporting System and population estimates from the American Community Survey Public Use Microdata Sample. Rates were stratified by lethal means, occupation, and biological sex. Results – Firearm-related suicides rates were highest among construction and extraction; installation, maintenance, and repair; and protective service occupations. Poisoning-related suicide rates were highest among arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media; construction and extraction; and healthcare practitioners and technical occupations. Conclusions – Occupational groups with access to firearms at work and low-wage jobs have higher rates of firearm-related suicide. Future investigations should examine how occupational access to firearms contributes to suicide risk among workers.