The 19th: Prof. Hahm Examines Increase in Women Suicides
In an interview with The 19th, Prof. Hyeouk Chris Hahm from BU School of Social Work discussed reasons behind the 4 percent increase in suicides for women in 2022. According to data from the CDC, 2022 also marked the highest rate of deaths by suicide in US history, with women between 25 and 34 experiencing the most significant increase in suicide rates.
Excerpt from “Suicide rates for women increased 4 percent in 2022, according to latest CDC data” by Mariel Padilla, originally posted in The 19th:
“Hyeouk Chris Hahm, an associate dean for research at Boston University School of Social Work, said that suicide is associated with a complex combination of individual, interpersonal, and societal factors, making it difficult to pinpoint exact causes. Still, Hahm also mentioned the losses of the pandemic — in addition to a loneliness epidemic, substance use disorder, and financial strains in young adulthood — as potential contributors to deteriorating mental wellness and subsequent increased suicide rates.
‘Especially among young adults in the U.S., these stresses are often linked to high college costs, student loans and escalating living expenses,’ Hahm said. ‘In addition, the current housing crisis, characterized by a lack of affordable options and high mortgage rates, further crushes many young adults’ dreams of homeownership.’”