California’s suicide rate is rising twice as fast in rural counties, compared to urban areas. That’s a 23-percent increase, from 2004 to 2013, according to data from the California Department of Public Health obtained by the “Sacramento Bee”. Of those 27 counties, Nevada County ranks right in the middle, with the 14th highest rate, and 181 people dying. Like many such counties, there is a high concentration of older, white adults, who are the most likely to take their own lives. The director of Nevada County Behavioral Health, Rebecca Slade, says she’s not sure why. But there may be cultural factors…

click to listen to Rebecca Slade

Slade says she’s heard all kinds of reasons for people taking their own lives, including the loss of a spouse and a growing sense of isolation. Also, financial and health problems. But she says although Nevada County has better help available than some rural counties, many people are reluctant to seek help…

click to listen to Rebecca Slade

Slade says Nevada County does need more psychiatrists, who usually work in more populated areas. There are also more gun owners in rural counties, which is the most common form of suicide.