ARKANSAS, USA — Arkansas recorded the only significant increase in suicide deaths nationwide from 2022 to 2023, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) reported that 626 Arkansans died by suicide in 2023, which is about 80 more than the previous year. That represents a rise of more than 12% in one year, the CDC found.

Dr. Bala Simon, deputy chief medical officer with ADH, said the increase stems from several factors, including limited access to mental health care, high rates of substance use, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s been a product of increasing mental health crises in the state and across the nation, and also lack of access to mental health services and the providers across the state,” Simon said.