According to provisional data from the New Mexico Department of Health, the state’s suicide rate dropped by 19 percent between 2024 and 2025.
The drop, according to NMDOH, may show that years of suicide education, prevention initiatives, and heightened public awareness have paid off. Still, health officials warn that this improvement does not mean the crisis is over for a state that has long faced one of the highest suicide rates in the country.
Suicide is still the ninth leading cause of death among New Mexicans in 2025. It was also the second leading cause of death among young people ages 12 to 17, according to NMDOH.
Most suicide deaths in 2025 involved a firearm, officials said.
While the drop in the suicide rate is significant, health officials caution that the suicide crisis is far from over.
Suicide is still a leading cause of death in New Mexico, especially for young people. State data also show big differences in suicide rates among different groups and counties.
NMDOH Secretary Gina DeBlassie said, “Suicide is preventable, and you can help save a life by learning the warning signs.” She added, “Talking openly about suicide can help reduce stigma and suicidal ideation while letting people know you care.”
The state’s health department data show that suicide prevention requires more than just mental health treatment. Lower suicide risk is also linked to social connections, higher education, and housing security.
NMDOH released the data on suicide rate as New Mexico marks National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September. World Suicide Prevention Day is on September 10.
If you know someone who is in immediate danger or thinking about suicide, call or text 988 in the United States to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
