Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are common among children and adolescents. Among youth aged 10-14 in the US, suicide is the second leading cause of death.
Recent data released by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) suggest that from 2000-2018, suicide rates have increased in individuals between the age of 10-24 years old, with the data in 2018 showing suicide rates to be approximately 11 per 100,000 youth aged 10-14.
Warning signs of suicidal thoughts or behaviors include making statements about wishing to be dead or feeling like their death would be a relief of burden to family/friends; changes in sleeping/eating habits; withdraw from friends, family, and normal activities; expression of hopelessness and/or worthlessness; and a preoccupation with death or dying.
If you or someone you know is dealing with mental health concerns or thoughts of self-harm/suicide, know there is help. There are several free and confidential resources available including a fact sheet from the World Health Organization and the National Suicide Hotline.
- Amos Cottage
- Pediatric Development and Behavior
- Behavioral Health
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine
- Chemical Dependency Program
- Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 800-273-TALK or 800-SUICIDE
- The Crisis Text line: Text “Home” to 741741