State health officials emphasize prevention and crisis resources during Suicide Prevention Month
GRANTS, N.M. – New Mexico’s suicide rate fell 19% between 2024 and 2025, according to provisional data released by the New Mexico Department of Health.
The decline is encouraging, but suicide remained the ninth-leading cause of death among New Mexicans in 2025 and the second-leading cause of death among youths ages 12 to 17, the department reported. Most suicide deaths recorded during the year involved a firearm.
The Cibola Citizen has asked NMDOH for data showing whether Cibola County experienced a similar decline. Countylevel figures had not been provided as of publication.
NMDOH said several factors—including stronger social connections, higher educational attainment and secure housing—were associated with a lower risk of suicide. Because the 2025 figures are provisional, they may be revised as death records are finalized.
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, while World Suicide Prevention Day was observed Sept. 10.
“Suicide is preventable and you can help save a life by learning the warning signs,” NMDOH Cabinet Secretary Gina DeBlassie said. “Talking openly about suicide can help reduce stigma and suicidal ideation while letting people know you care.”
Warning signs may include talking about wanting to die, expressing feelings of hopelessness or being a burden, withdrawing from family and friends, giving away important possessions, increased substance use or displaying extreme mood changes.
Health officials encourage people to take statements about suicide seriously, listen without judgment and help the person connect with professional support.
Anyone experiencing a mental health or substance- use crisis—or worried about someone else—may call or text 988 at any time. The New Mexico 988 Crisis and Access Line provides free and confidential support in English and Spanish.
Veterans and service members may call 988 and press 1 or text 838255 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.
NMDOH also recommends securely storing firearms and keeping them inaccessible to anyone experiencing a crisis. Free firearm locks may be requested through the department’s firearm-injury prevention program.
The Albuquerque Area Indian Health Board’s Community Health Education and Resiliency Program also offers training intended to help individuals recognize and respond to mentalhealth challenges.
The Cibola Citizen will update this report if NMDOH provides Cibola County-specific figures.
Need help now? Call or text 988 for free, confidential crisis support available 24 hours a day. If someone faces an immediate physical danger, call 911.