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In the last few days, new CDC mortality data have revealed a devastating truth: for the first time on record, young Black men are dying by suicide at higher rates than young white men, and Black suicide deaths have risen by more than 50% in the last decade. This has been reported in recent coverage from national news sources in mid‑June 2026, and I cannot ignore it. These numbers do not float in the air. I still believe with my whole heart that suicide is not the only ending to our story, and that help, healing, and hope are possible. They sit on top of real life for Black men, with money pressure, racism, grief, health struggles, family weight, questions of identity, and an unspoken rule many of us feel: that we are not allowed to break down, that we always have to be strong, work harder, and show up a certain way in public spaces, in church and at home, or risk being labeled and facing consequences. I am speaking directly to Black men here, but this is not to exclude any brother who carries these same weights; if you see yourself in this, I am talking to you, too.  

Brothers, you are not alone. Even when shame is loud, and the words feel stuck, your life is worth the reach. Call, text, knock on somebody’s door; needing help does not make you weak, it means you are still fighting. And if all you can say is, “I am not okay,” that is enough. Say it, and let someone sit with you in it. If this feels urgent and unexpected from me, it is, because you matter, and your life matters more than my posting schedule.  

If you need help now, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line for free, confidential support 24/7.