Illinois suicide rate increases, but more slowly than nation
CHICAGO (AP) - A government study finds the suicide rate among middle-aged Illinois residents is increasing, but not by as much as the national rate for the same age group.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released the report Thursday. The agency provided state numbers to The Associated Press.
Between 1999 and 2010, the suicide rate in Illinois among those ages 35 to 64 climbed nearly 19 percent. The rate rose from 11 suicides per 100,000 people to 13 suicides per 100,000.
The national suicide rate for the same age group rose by 28 percent.
Health officials say new strategies for suicide prevention should address issues middle-aged Americans are likely to face. Those issues include financial challenges, caregiver responsibilities for children and aging parents, and health problems.
Governor Nixon asks for $10 million more in mental health funding
Nixon met with law enforcement officers, educators, and mental health professionals to discuss the proposal today. The new money will be used to identify those with mental health issues before they reach a crisis point.
The Missouri Department of Mental Health estimates that 1,100 people could be assisted through this initiative each year.
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