A new report from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services outlines targeted strategies to address suicide, now the second leading cause of death for residents ages 10 to 34.
Suicide remains a major public health concern in Michigan, ranking as the second leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 34. In 2024, the state reported 1,448 suicide deaths. Michigan's age-adjusted suicide rate is 13.7 per 100,000 residents, which is close to the national average and slightly lower than last year, according to the Violence Policy Center (national suicide data).
In response, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has released a new set of recommendations to strengthen suicide prevention efforts statewide. The Michigan Suicide Prevention Council, working with partners from public health, health care, behavioral health, education, tribal communities, law enforcement, veteran services, and community organizations, developed the report to guide action through 2027. Local agencies, including the City of Farmington and Farmington Public Schools, are being asked to review these recommendations and update their wellness and crisis response plans, since schools and city governments often play a key role in early intervention.
Key recommendations
The council's main proposals focus on two areas: securing ongoing state funding for suicide prevention and making sure professionals receive required suicide prevention training. The plan recommends tying professional licenses to core suicide prevention skills, such as recognizing risk factors and using evidence-based screening and assessment. This approach matches recent federal funding, including $383.4 million allocated nationally in September 2026 for behavioral health, with $205.8 million set aside to expand the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. These funds provide a backdrop for Michigan's prevention work.
MDHHS says these steps are meant to create a stronger system that can identify people at risk and connect them with support. The department also reminds residents that help is available at any time by calling or texting 988. The City of Farmington Hills has promoted the 988 service in public safety messages to make sure residents know about this 24/7 resource.
Understanding the challenge
Suicide has a significant impact in Michigan, especially among young people. The 2024 data highlights the need for coordinated prevention. Nationally, there were 48,824 suicide deaths in 2024, and Michigan's rate closely matches the national average (according to KFF Quick Insights). The Michigan Suicide Prevention Plan, "A Systems Level Approach to Prevention Suicide, 2024-2027," is the framework for these efforts. The council supports its rollout across the state, and local school districts like Farmington Public Schools are encouraged to join awareness campaigns and staff training as part of the response.
MDHHS is sharing these recommendations during Suicide Prevention Month to raise awareness and encourage action throughout Michigan communities. The full report and additional resources are available on the department's Injury and Violence Suicide Prevention webpage. Residents can also find information about upcoming public meetings and mental health programs through the City of Farmington Public Safety portal.
How the council works
The Michigan Suicide Prevention Council acts as a statewide advisory group, bringing together people from different backgrounds to develop and support prevention strategies. Its work includes reviewing data, finding service gaps, and recommending policy changes to state leaders. The council's collaborative approach is meant to make sure prevention efforts reflect a range of perspectives, including input from local governments and county health departments like the Oakland County Health Division.
Anyone interested in learning more or accessing suicide prevention resources can find details and the full report on the MDHHS Injury and Violence Suicide Prevention webpage. The department encourages anyone struggling, or worried about someone else, to reach out for help by calling or texting 988. Local officials and school counselors are also available to connect people with services.
Michigan's focus on sustained funding and professional training shows a recognition that suicide prevention needs both long-term investment and frontline readiness. By building up infrastructure and workforce skills, the state aims to respond more effectively to this ongoing public health challenge.
