Analysis of CDC data sheds light on nurse suicide

While suicide rates are increasing for all Americans, an analysis of 2014 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data from 18 states found male and female nurses had higher rates of suicide than other Americans of their respective genders. Researchers from the University of California, San Diego proposed future research into preventive strategies. The authors found nurse anesthetists and retired nurses were at higher risk than other nurses, and nurses were most likely to use benzodiazepines, antihistamines and opioids to take their own lives. The article quotes an AONL statement which notes the organization continues to advocate for funding to address nurse suicide. (Business Insider story, 8/21/19)