Utah is experiencing a significant suicide crisis, with rates nearly double the national average, according to data shared by Summit County Health Director Phil Bondurant. The early 2026 survey found alarming disparities in suicide deaths, particularly among men aged 10 to 44.
In the United States, suicide is the second leading cause of death behind unintentional injury. However, Utah’s situation is substantially worse. According to Bondurant, who spoke to KPCW’s “Local News Hour” on June 8, Utah experiences two times the national average in suicides overall. Among men specifically, the disparity is even starker: three of the four suicides in the state of Utah are men, far disproportionate to women. The state records roughly 31 suicide deaths per 100,000 men while less than 9 deaths per 100,000 are women.
Bondurant attributed these elevated rates to men experiencing isolation, depression, and uncertainty about the future. He emphasized that mental health requires the same attention and care as physical health, noting that people “need to take care of it” just as they would for any physical ailment.
The Summit County Health Department has developed programs focused on breaking stigma around men’s mental health and improving access to care. Uninsured residents needing help can contact the health department to speak with their behavioral health team. Additionally, a 24-hour crisis hotline is available at 988, and Utahns can download the SafeUT app to speak with licensed counselors, submit safety tips, and receive confidential assistance.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://newspub.live/west/utah/utah-suicide-rates-twice-national-average-summit-county-health-department-says/