Suicide Prevention

If this is an emergency, please call 911

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for teens and young adults, ages 10-34 (CDC, 2023).

Suicide Attempt vs. Suicide

Suicide Attempt

A non-fatal, self-directed, potentially injurious behavior with intent to die as a result of the behavior. A suicide attempt might not result in injury.

Suicide

Death caused by self-directed injurious behavior with the intent to die as a result of the behavior.

Potential causes of suicide attempts

Thoughts about suicide and suicide attempts are commonly associated with mood disorders. In addition, other risk factors include:

Family history of suicide attempts
Exposure to violence
Impulsivity
Aggressive or disruptive behavior
Access to firearms
Substance abuse
Bullying
Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
Acute loss or rejection

What to look for:

Among both children and adolescents, the warning signs of suicide can include:

Changes in eating or sleeping habits
Frequent or pervasive sadness
Withdrawal from friends, family, and regular activities
Frequent complaints about physical symptoms often related to emotions, such as stomachaches, headaches, fatigue, etc.
Decline in the quality of schoolwork
Preoccupation with death and dying
Giving away prized possessions (look into the data)
Journal/Diary writing