Suicide rates in Maine increased by more than 27 percent over the period from 1999 to 2016. That's according to a report realeased by the National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Across New England, the steepest increases in suicides were seen in New Hampshire and Vermont, with an increase of 48 percent. Massachusetts saw a 35 percent increase, Rhode Island 34 percent and Connecticut 19 percent.
Across the nation, all states saw an increase in suicides, with the exception of Nevada which showed a slight decline.
According to the department, the numbers indicate some trends: Suicide affects many with no known mental health conditions; relationship problems were a major factor ; and a significant number of suicides are committed by men, with a firearm.
