Depression is increasing among Americans reaching middle age

While thoughts of suicide were slightly higher on average amongst less-educated whites than other groups, the pattern of change over time was similar. Other research has shown that whites commit suicide at a higher rate than blacks and Hispanics: according to the CDC, white non-Hispanic Americans commit suicide at around three times the rate of blacks and Hispanics, with the highest and growing toll amongst older men. In a paper published for the National Bureau of Economic Research in April, William Dow, a public health specialist, reported that suicides were lower in states that have increased the minimum wage and provided more generous credits through the EITC (earned income tax credit), a refundable tax credit for low income individuals and families.

Source: www.economist.com