Question
What trends have been observed in adolescent suicide rates, and what factors contribute to these trends?
Answer
Adolescent suicide rates have been on the rise since 2010, with the rate increasing from 11.08 per 100,000 individuals in 2012 to 15.15 per 100,000 in 2021. This increase is particularly notable in the age group of 15 to 24 years old and is currently the third leading cause of death among 10 to 19-year-olds in the United States. Several factors contribute to this alarming trend, including the impact of digital media, which has been linked to declining mental health, especially in adolescent girls.
The COVID-19 pandemic also exacerbated mental health issues by isolating adolescents from their social circles, leading to higher rates of depression and suicidal ideation. Moreover, socioeconomic factors such as economic inequality and increased access to lethal means, particularly firearms, have been linked to higher suicide rates, especially among male adolescents. Addressing these factors is crucial in reversing this trend and improving adolescent mental health outcomes.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the webinar, Understanding and Assessing Suicidality in Adolescents: A Comprehensive Approach, presented by Lauren, Dennelly, PhD, MSW, LCSW
