Protecting Mental Health

Washington has a large economy around healthcare, yet very few are able to actually access a provider. Why? Provider networks are not adequate, bureaucracy at the state level has increased cost and we need a system that is accessible for providers to use so that people seeking counseling can get the support when they need it.

 

The true cost of inaccessible care is measured in lives. And once a life is gone, it cannot be returned.

 

• 1,221 Washington residents died by suicide in 2024 (14.5 deaths per 100,000 people).

• Youth (ages 10–17) suicide and suicide-attempt rates increased from 67 per 100,000 in 2013 to 321 per 100,000 in 2023, remaining nearly 5 times higher than a decade ago.

• Young adults (ages 18–27) had a suicide rate of 18.8 per 100,000 in 2024, a 13.3% increase since 2014.

• Suicide continues to be a major public health concern across Washington, particularly among youth and young adults.