Brayden Ross, Southern Utah University
In the Mountain West Census Region of the U.S., suicide rates are significantly higher than any other region in the U.S. The causes as to why have been sought after and studied numerous times throughout recent history. This study looks at religiosity and how it affects suicide rates by State in the Mountain West region. The importance of this particular study is that of prevention. Suicides can be prevented if the causes are made known. In this instance, more emotional counseling could be provided in areas with higher rates as well as more awareness about the effects of depression. The main goal of identification is prevention. Suicide rates by county were collected from the CDC website, and all Religiosity data was collected from the ARDA religious census of 2010. By using regression modeling, the effects of religiosity can be studied by state to determine whether or not there is a significant effect on suicide rates in that particular area. To provide a wider scope of just who and what it affects, other variables such as age group, congregation size, attendance and population were examined in regression models. After running regressions in each state and determining statistical significance, areas with a higher level of religiosity do indeed have a higher suicide rate than areas with lower religiosity. Higher attendance rates were significantly related to suicide rates, meaning that the more regular attendees an area had, the higher the suicide rate. Using these findings, we can make steps towards bringing more awareness in the necessary states about depression, anxiety, and the effects that they have on suicide rates. Prevention efforts can be increased and counseling can be provided. In todays society, religion can be a difficult subject for many, but the fact of the matter remains that it is in any way contributing to higher suicide rates, it needs to be addressed in a timely manner in order to save lives. Now speculation can be made about exactly why religion affects these rates, things such as pressure to act a certain way or to become a certain person. Feeling trapped if you do not live up to the standards shown around you, and many see suicide as the only way out. This need not be the case, and these issues can be changed and need to be changed based on the findings of this study.