Graphic of the week: Suicide rates across Ohio

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and data shows that suicide death rates vary widely across Ohio, with large differences between counties in the same region, as illustrated above.
 
Preliminary data from the Ohio Department of Health shows that 1,789 Ohioans died by suicide in 2025. Among working-age Ohioans, suicide was the fourth leading cause of death in the state (behind only cancer, heart disease and unintentional injuries). That means nearly five Ohioans die per day by suicide.
 
These preventable deaths have an enormous impact on Ohio families and communities. With the rate of suicide climbing over the past decade, both in Ohio and nationally, there are evidence-informed strategies that public- and private-sector leaders can implement to address the issue.
 
The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation’s Suicide Prevention Plan for Ohio, 2024-2026 offers a roadmap for state leaders to reduce suicides in the state. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has also released a National Strategy for Suicide Prevention.
 
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org 24/7 for free and confidential support.