CHANGING FACE OF SUICIDAL BEHAVIORS AND SUICIDE

Abstract

Underrepresented minority youths and girls are experiencing rising rates of suicide. Research published in 2018 revealed that suicide rates among Black boys under 13 years old were 2 times higher than comparable White children. Rates of suicide in girls aged 10-14 years tripled between 1999 and 2014. Despite improved recognition, evidence-based prevention programs at schools, and effective interventions for suicidal youth, rates of suicide continue to increase. The United States has seen a 33% increase in youth suicide rates between 1999 and 2014, and suicide remains the second leading cause of death for youth aged 10-19 years. Furthermore, data reported by the CDC suggests that suicidal thoughts are prevalent among asymptomatic, nonreferred youths. Historically, suicide rates have been higher for White male adolescents over 13 years of age. New data challenges these assumptions about suicide attempters and completers. Research focused on suicide among these newly identified at-risk populations is scant, and it is now an area of increasing research focus.