States of the Intermoutain West are found to have Highest Suicide Rates in the Country

Vast open plains, towering granite peaks, and the pioneer spirit are what most people picture when they picture the America West. Since the begining of formal studies, the highest suicide rates in the nation have been found in the intermountain west. Sociologist often are puzzeled by this odd phenomonon. Why are suicide rates so high in the most relaxed and serene part of the country? Numerous theories have been put forth attempting to answer this half century old riddle. Several of these studies will be cited through out this report, which will ultimately attempt to uncover the priciple factor that fuels this cycle.