actually from historical narratives ive read suicide among homesteaders especially females were “dreadfully high” and in places like the Dakotas Kansas ect they didn’t go a whole winter with out one or more incident of a parent (usually female) killing their family and then themselves because of the isolation and weather ….
its one reason the psychology profession began to research seasonal depression and the like
I’m not religious, but historically, religion has played a significant role in adding structure, higher purpose and a moral framework to society. As we become a more secular society, maybe some people find it difficult to find that higher purpose in life?
I also think that not too long ago, people didn’t “need” to commit suicide. It was hard enough just keeping from getting killed by all the stuff that could kill you.