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in heartbreaking news, as the United States hast hit a troubling all-time high of deaths by suicide.

The CDC reported Thursday that almost 50,000 Americans took their own lives in 2022 alone, a 2% increase from 2021. The largest demographic increase was seen in adults 45 and older; and white men had the highest rate of suicide of all demographics.

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy said the data was a sobering reminder of the need to expand access to mental health care. The federal government is already taking steps toward making resources more available for those struggling with suicidal thoughts.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services launched a new suicide lifeline, 988, one year ago, and the service has received over 2 million calls since its launch. Secretary Xavier Becerra says it’s a step in the right direction.