Suicide rates among preteens are on the rise

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Tuesday, July 30, 2024

The findings highlight the importance of identifying and helping those at risk.

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The National Institutes of Health found that suicide rates among preadolescents (ages 8 to 12) have increased by approximately 8% per year since 2008. Increases in preadolescent suicide rates have been greatest among Hispanic, American Indian/Alaska Native, or Asian/Pacific Islander females. The researchers note that while the number of preadolescent suicides may be small compared to the adolescent and adult population, this study highlights the importance of age-appropriate prevention programs. These include deadly weapon safety counseling and suicide risk assessments. These findings underscore the importance of identifying and helping preadolescents at high risk for suicidal behavior.

The researchers also discovered:

• The suicide rate of preteen girls was higher than that of preteen boys.
• Black preteens have the highest suicide rates.
• Hispanic adolescents accounted for the largest percentage increase in suicide rates.
• Firearms are the fastest growing method of suicide.

Use data for 2001-2022 from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's web-based injury statistics reporting and query system for U.S. youth (ages 8-12).The researchers examined suicide mortality rates overall, as well as by sex, race, ethnicity, and suicide method. They also looked at metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas, geographic regions, and suicide methods.

Researchers from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and The Ohio State University College of Medicine collaborated with principal investigator Donna A. Ruch to conduct the study. The study was published in the Journal of Pediatrics. Open JAMA Network.

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Lisa Horowitz, Ph.D., is a senior associate scientist and pediatric psychologist. She also directs patient safety and quality at the National Institute of Mental Health's Intramural Research Program.

The article below provides more information about the item.

Ruch, DA, Horowitz, LM, Hughes, JL, Sarkisian, K., Luby, JL, Fontanella, CA, and Bridge, JA (2024). Suicides of preadolescents in the United States, aged 8 to 12 years (2001-2022). Open JAMA Network.

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