NH ranked 21st for suicide

According to a report by the United Health Foundation, New Hampshire ranks 21st in the nation for suicides. Massachusetts topped the list, while Montana ranked last.

The 2015 report was based on 2013 data provided by the CDC’s National Vital Statistics System.

The report cited a suicide rate that ranged from 8.3 deaths per 100,000 population in Massachusetts to a high of 24 deaths per 100,000 population in Montana. NH's suicide rate was 13.3 per 100,000 population. The national rate was 13 deaths per 100,000 population.

According to the report, "Evidence from ecologic- and individual-level studies over the past 2 decades shows a strong association between a firearm in the home and an increased risk of suicide." 

New Hampshire has a relatively low rate of gun ownership compared to the rest of the United States; the report did not examine any relationship between firearms and suicide in New Hampshire.

Others contend the suicide rate reflects inadequate clinical and community preventive services. However, according to the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, New Hampshire ranks 13th for mental health services spending per capita.