Washington recorded at least 1,352 suicides in 2025, a rate of 15.5 deaths per 100,000 people, marking an increase from 2024's rate of 14.3 per 100,000, according to new data from the Washington State Department of Health.
The increases were particularly pronounced among older adults. Adults 65 and older saw the largest increase of any age group, with a death rate rising from 19.1 per 100,000 in 2024 to 23.3 in 2025. Youth ages 10 to 17 also saw a significant rise, from 4.7 to 7.7 deaths per 100,000, with most of the increase occurring among male-identified youth.
Some rural counties experienced dramatic increases, with the number of suicide deaths doubling or even tripling compared with 2024. Because rates are based on population, even a small increase in absolute numbers can cause large rate jumps in communities with smaller populations.
American Indian and Alaska Native residents experienced the highest death rates, at 28.8 per 100,000 people—86 percent higher than the state average. Suicide rates also increased among Hispanic residents, from 8.5 to 9.9 per 100,000, as well as among White and Black residents.
Washington's suicide rate remains below its 2017 peak of 16.9 deaths per 100,000 but exceeds the national average of 13.7 per 100,000. States in the Pacific Northwest report higher rates: Oregon at 19.6, Idaho at 20.6, and Alaska at 31.0 per 100,000, according to preliminary CDC data.
The state released its 2025 State Suicide Prevention Plan in May, which focuses on enhancing well-being and social connectedness, developing multi-sector prevention strategies, improving treatment and support services, and increasing research. One program developed from this effort is Washington's Find Your People, which helps residents locate social connection opportunities in their communities based on shared interests and abilities.
Research published this year in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline was associated with fewer suicide deaths among teenagers and young adults across the country, with the effect more pronounced in states with higher usage rates, including Washington.