This article includes a discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741-741. Please take care while reading.

Nearly 1,400 people died by suicide in Washington state in 2025, the highest total in 25 years, according to data released this week by the state’s health department.

“We are worried,” said Michele Roberts, who leads the agency’s suicide prevention work.

She said it’s not clear why more people died by suicide last year than in other recent years.

“Obviously we need to keep looking at all the different reasons,” she said, “but we know there are some themes: isolation, financial and job stress, and not knowing where to turn.”

Washington state has had a higher suicide rate than the national average for more than 20 years. Roberts said the reasons for that are not well understood either.

She said, in Washington, suicide rates are highest among men older than 65, people who live in rural areas, and Native Americans.

For older adults, the state health department has launched a tool to help them find social activities in their area. Roberts said she also encourages people to check in with any older adults in their lives.

“My mom lives alone now, and she’s very social and needs that connection,” Roberts said. “So, I remind myself too [that] it’s important to call her and check in and see how she’s doing on a regular basis. That’s part of what is going to help her stay well.”

Roberts said one hopeful note is that the 988 hotline seems to be helping teens and young adults. After it launched, the suicide rate was lower than expected among young people, especially in states like Washington where more people texted or called the number.

When people reach out to 988, they have the option of connecting with the Native and Strong Lifeline.

In that case, Roberts said, “ the counselors who will respond are Indigenous people who are trained and understand about some of the unique aspects and culturally appropriate healing ways.”

The agency is trying to make sure Native Americans in Washington know about that option.

Roberts said it’s important for everyone to know it’s OK to talk about suicide.

“If you’re worried about someone, ask them,” Roberts said. “It’s OK to ask directly [and] plainly whether they’re thinking about suicide.”

“People worry, ‘Will that plant the idea?’” she added. “But it actually doesn’t. What it does is open the door to help.”

Ellis O’Neill is a reporter with KUOW. This story comes to you from the Northwest News Network, a collaboration between public media organizations in Oregon and Washington.

It is part of OPB’s broader effort to ensure that everyone in our region has access to quality journalism that informs, entertains and enriches their lives. To learn more, visit our journalism partnerships page.

News Source : https://www.opb.org/article/2026/10/30/1400-people-died-by-suicide-in-washington-state-last-year-a-record/