Top 10 Jobs with Highest Suicide Rates

Published On: June 20, 20242 min read
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Here are 10 occupations with some of the highest suicide rates in the United States, based on recent data from the CDC’s National Vital Statistics System (2021) and other research on occupational suicide risk. Note that rates vary by sex and detailed occupation, and this list reflects broader job categories where elevated suicide rates have been documented:

So what are the jobs with highest suicide rates?

  1. Logging workers – Among the detailed occupational groups with the highest suicide rates in 2021.
  2. Agricultural and food scientists – Also among detailed occupations with very high suicide rates.
  3. Fishing and hunting workers – Reported among the highest rates of occupational suicide.
  4. Other extraction workers (e.g., mining) – High suicide rates among extraction-related jobs.
  5. Construction and extraction occupations – A major group with elevated suicide rates (e.g., construction workers).
  6. Farming, fishing, and forestry occupations – Elevated risk across these industries.
  7. Personal care and service occupations – Higher than average suicide rates reported by the CDC.
  8. Installation, maintenance, and repair – Another occupational group with elevated rates.
  9. Arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media occupations – Elevated suicide rates, particularly in males and some detailed artistic roles.
  10. Production occupations – Workers in manufacturing and production also show elevated suicide rates.

📌 Source: National Vital Statistics System, Suicide Rates by Industry and Occupation, United States, 2021 (CDC / Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

Note:

  • These rates reflect trends among adults in the civilian noninstitutionalized working population, and suicide likelihood can vary greatly within specific job roles.
  • For detailed tables of specific occupations and rates, see the CDC report “Suicide Rates by Industry and Occupation — United States, 2021” available at the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7250a2.htm

Feeling overwhelmed by job stress or recognizing these risks in yourself or others is a valid reason to seek support—many professionals face this silently until it’s time to act.

You’re Not Alone in This

High-pressure careers like those listed often demand constant resilience, leaving little room for emotional recovery. Feelings of exhaustion, anxiety, or hopelessness can build quietly, affecting your health, relationships, and sense of purpose.

Choices Psychotherapy Offers Real Support

At Choices Psychotherapy, therapists create a safe, non-judgmental space tailored for busy professionals. You can address work burnout, trauma from demanding roles, or the emotional toll of high-stakes decisions without fear of being misunderstood.

Tailored Therapy Services

Our experienced providers specialize in:

  • Managing stress, anxiety, and depression linked to occupational demands
  • Processing trauma, grief, or crisis exposure
  • Building healthier work-life boundaries and resilience
  • Supporting relationships strained by job pressures
  • Individualized plans for long-term emotional wellness

Your Next Step Toward Healing

Therapy empowers you to reclaim control and rediscover balance—starting with one conversation. Contact Choices Psychotherapy today to schedule a confidential appointment and begin your personal roadmap to recovery.