Milwaukee County sees rise in suicides in Black communities

Since 2013, the average number of Black people who committed suicide each year in Milwaukee County was roughly 12 people. This year, it’s 23. (stock photo)

Black residents, who make up the largest minority group in Milwaukee County, are committing suicide at a higher rate this year than in any other time during the past 10 years, according to data from the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office. 

This alarming rate is generally consistent with a national crisis of suicide in communities of color – a trend that preceded, but was exacerbated by, the pandemic.