Suicide is the second leading cause of death in people aged 10 to 24 (Hus, 2024).In 2024, approximately 2.4 million U.S. teens experienced serious suicidal thoughts, and around 700,000 attempted suicide.
While accidents-including unintentional car crashes, drug overdoses, poisonings, and drownings-are the leading cause of death for this age group, some of these incidents are actually suicides. For instance, a person contemplating suicide might deliberately crash their car, which could later be classified as an accident.
Adolescents don’t all face the same suicide risk. Girls attempt suicide more frequently than boys, but boys are more likely to die from their attempts due to the use of more lethal methods, such as firearms. Other risk factors include depression or anxiety, substance use (drugs or alcohol), experiencing bullying (including online), having a disability, identifying as a member of a minority group-such as Black, Indigenous, and Alaska Native populations-or experiencing important stress.
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are more common among adolescents who are friends with peers who share similar thoughts. Frequent social media use also correlates with increased risk; teens frequently enough encounter exaggerated social and physical comparisons online, which can negatively impact self-image and create dissatisfaction (Ahmed, 2025).
Suicide prevention is crucial, beginning with early detection. Parents, teachers, coaches, and other adults who interact with adolescents should pay close attention to their well-being. Regularly ask how they are doing and demonstrate genuine care and concern.
Warning signs that an adolescent may be experiencing suicidal thoughts include depression or anxiety, withdrawal from social activities, discussing suicidal thoughts (their own or those of others), and giving away valued possessions, rationalizing that they “won’t need them anymore.”
Adolescents who engage in non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) are at a higher risk of suicide. NSSI often involves self-cutting or superficial burns as a way to cope with intense negative emotions. While this may provide temporary relief, it doesn’t address the underlying issues.These adolescents benefit from therapy focused on emotional regulation.
Any adolescent who expresses suicidal thoughts should be taken seriously and connected with professional help.
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