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- Suicide ranks as the third leading cause of death for young
people (ages 15-19 and 15-29); only accidents and homicides occur
more frequently.
- Each year, there are approximately 12 suicides for every 100,000
adolescents.
- Approximately 12 young people between the ages of 15-24 die
every day by suicide.
- Within every 1 hour and 57 minutes, a person under the age
of 25 commits suicide.
- In 1997, 30,535 people committed suicide. 15% of all suicides
were committed by persons under the age of 25.
- Whereas suicides account for 1.3% of all deaths in the U.S.
annually, they comprise 13.3% of all deaths among 15-24 year olds.
- Suicide rates for 15-24 year olds, are 300% higher than those of the 1950s,
but have remained largely stable at these higher levels since the late 1970s.
- Suicide rates for those 15-19 years old have increased 11%
since 1980 (1997 data). Suicide rates for those between the ages
of 10-14, however, have increased 99% since 1980.
- Firearms remain the most commonly used suicide method among
youth, regardless of race or gender, nearly accounting for almost
two of three completed suicides.
- Research has shown that the access to and availability of firearms
is a significant factor in the increase of youth suicide.
- The male to female ratio (1n 1997) of completed suicides was
3.2 to 1 among 10-14 year olds, and 4.8 to 1 among 15-19 years
olds, and 6.1 to 1 among 20-24 year olds.
- Black male youth (ages 10-14) have shown the largest increase
in suicide rates since 1980 compared to other youth groups by
sex and ethnicity, increasing 276%. Among 15-19 year old black
males, rates (since 1980) have increased 103%.
- Research has shown that most adolescent suicides occur in the
afternoon or early evening and in the teen's home.
- Although rates vary somewhat by geographic location, within
a typical high school classroom, it is likely that three students
(one boy and two girls) have made a suicide attempt in the past
year.
- Nationwide, 20.5% of high school students have stated on self-report
surveys that they have seriously considered attempting suicide
during the preceding 12 months.
- A prior suicide attempt is an important risk factor for an
eventual completion.
- The typical profile of an adolescent nonfatal suicide attempter
is a female who ingests pills; while the profile of the typical
completer suicide is a male who dies from a gunshot wound.
- Not all adolescent attempters may admit their intent. Therefore,
any deliberate self-harming behaviors should be considered serious
and in need of further evaluation.
- Most adolescent suicide attempts are precipitated by interpersonal
conflicts. The intent of the behavior appears to be to effect
change in the behaviors or attitudes of others.
- Repeat attempters (those making more than one nonlethal attempt)
use their behavior as a means of coping with stress and tend to
exhibit more chronic symptomology, poorer coping histories, and
a higher presence of suicidal and substance abusive behaviors
in their family histories.
- Many teenagers may display one or more of the problems or "signs"
detailed below. The following list describes some potential factors of risk
for suicide among youth. If observed, a professional evaluation is strongly
recommended:
- Presence of a psychiatric disorder (e.g., depression, drug or
alcohol, behavior disorders, conduct disorder [e.g., runs away
or has been incarcerated]).
- The expression/communication of thoughts of suicide, death,
dying, dying or the afterlife (in a context of sadness, boredom,
or negative feelings).
- Impulsive and aggressive behavior; frequent expressions of rage.
- Previous exposure to other's suicidality.
- Recent severe stressor (e.g., difficulties in dealing with sexual
orientation; unplanned pregnancy or other significant real or
impending loss).
- Family loss of stability; significant family conflict.
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