YOUTH SUICIDE

What Should I Know About Youth Suicide?
Childhood and adolescence are often portrayed as carefree, easy and fun-filled times in life. However, the thousands of child and youth suicides each year demonstrate that this in not always the case. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for 15 to 24-year olds, and the sixth leading cause of death for 5 to 14-year olds. The number of attempted suicides is even higher.
While these statistics may be frightening, it is important to remember that depression and suicidal feelings are both real and treatable. The majority of suicides and suicide attempts are not designed to simply "get attention," but are expressions of extreme distress and pain. Studies show that suicide attempts among young people may be based on long-standing problems and triggered by a specific event. Adolescents who are suicidal may view a temporary troubling situation as a permanent condition. Feelings of anger and resentment combined with exaggerated guilt can lead to impulsive, self-destructive acts. Parents, teachers, peers and others should always take threats of suicide seriously. If someone is suicidal, do not leave them alone. Seek immediate assistance from a qualified mental health professional.

What Are The Statistics?
  • Each year, nearly 5,000 young people between the ages of 15-24 commit suicide. The suicide rate for youth aged 10-14 has doubled since 1980, with an average of more than 300 deaths each year.
  • Among 15 to 19-year-olds, boys are about four times more likely to commit suicide than girls, while girls are twice as likely to attempt suicide.
  • Over 60% of all suicides are committed with a firearm. More than 75% of the increase in the youth suicide is associated with the use of firearms.


    Are There Any Warning Signs?


    Four of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warnings. If you suspect that a child or adolescent is suicidal, be on the lookout for warnings signs such as:
    • Threats of suicide-either direct or indirect

    • Verbal hints such as "I won't be around much longer," "Its' hopeless" or "I won't see you again."

    • Putting affairs in order (giving away favorite possessions or throwing away important belongings).

    • Sudden cheerfulness after a period of depression.

    • Hallucinating or experiencing bizarre thoughts.

    What Should I Do If I Think A Child Is Suicidal?


    • Ask the child or teen if he or she is feeling depressed or thinking about suicide. Speaking openly and honestly will provide a chance for the child to open up to your and for your to express how much you care. Listen to his or her thoughts and feelings in a caring and respectful manner.

    • Let the child or teen know that you care and want to help.

    • Provide the child or teen with local resources, such as a crises hotline to call, or a mental health clinic to visit. If the child or teen is a student, find out if there are any available mental health professionals at the school, and let the child know about them.

    • seek professional help. It is essential to seek expert advice from a mental health professional who has experience helping depressed children and teens. Alert key adults in the child's or teen's life--family, friends or teachers.

    • Inform the child's or teen's parent(s) and recommend that they seek professional assistance for their child or teen.

    • Trust your instincts. The situation may be serious, so seek immediate help. If necessary break a confidence in order to save a life.
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