New Study Reveals a Worrying Rise in Preteen Suicides
According to recent data from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), suicide rates among children aged 8 to 12 have been increasing by 8% annually from 2008 to 2022. The alarming rise in preteen suicide rates was further supported by a second study conducted by the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, which revealed a troubling reality: 60% of youths who died by suicide had not received a formal mental health diagnosis, highlighting the gaps in care and prevention.
While suicide prevention efforts often focus on teenagers, the data shows that children as young as eight are at risk. The findings, published in JAMA Network Open, indicate that the threat to younger children is growing, yet many at-risk children may never receive the help they desperately need.
The Growing Crisis Among Young Girls and Children of Colour
Although the rise in preteen suicides affects all demographics, certain groups are experiencing higher rates. According to the study, girls aged 8 to 12 are seeing faster increases in suicide rates than their male counterparts, and Black preteens have the highest overall suicide rates in the United States. Hispanic children also saw significant increases, highlighting racial and ethnic disparities in mental health treatment and suicide prevention.
The role of firearms in preteen suicides is also growing, raising serious concerns about safety and access. While the study did not specifically investigate the causes behind this rise, it noted that access to guns combined with a lack of mental health diagnoses is a deadly combination, particularly for children of colour who already face barriers to mental health care.
The Shocking Reality of Suicidal Thoughts in Young Children
While suicide is more frequently discussed in the context of teenagers, experts stress the importance of recognising suicidal thoughts in younger children. Clinical psychologists warn that suicidal ideation can begin in early elementary school, with some children as young as four mentioning the word “suicide.”
“Suicide is rising among younger children,” said Vanessa Laurent, a pediatric psychologist at Connecticut Children’s Hospital. “It is never too early to start discussing suicidal risk and increasing the protective factors in children’s lives.”
Why Are Young Children at Risk?
Several factors may lead to suicidal thoughts in preteens. Experts cite bullying, trauma, family stress, and even overwhelming mental health symptoms as common triggers. Children suffering from anxiety and depression may feel isolated, believing they are alone in their experiences. While research into suicidal risk in young children is still limited, certain factors, including exposure to social media, family instability, and access to firearms, can increase the risk.
“Early exposure to social media, combined with cyberbullying, has become a major contributor to increased suicidal ideation among younger children,” Laurent explained. Children who are sensitive to how their posts are received online are particularly vulnerable.
How Can Parents Identify Warning Signs?
Parents may struggle to determine if a child’s mention of suicide is serious or attention-seeking. However, experts emphasise that every mention of suicide should be taken seriously. “When children are seeking attention, there is always a reason,” said licensed clinical counselor Stephanie Strumberger. “Best-case scenario, they are trying to understand what it means and what would happen.”
If a child expresses suicidal thoughts, it is crucial for parents to remain calm and create an open, non-judgmental environment where the child feels safe to share their feelings.
What Can Parents Do?
Parents can take steps to protect their children by increasing supervision, restricting access to dangerous items like sharp objects and firearms, and, most importantly, providing emotional support.
Experts recommend that parents engage directly with their children about their suicidal thoughts by asking specific questions, such as:
- “What do you mean when you say you want to die?”
- “How long have you been thinking about killing yourself?”
- “Do you have a plan?”
- “What do you think would make things better?”
Parents should also seek professional help if their child expresses suicidal thoughts. Reaching out to a healthcare provider or a mental health professional can provide early intervention. In cases of immediate danger, parents can contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or access local emergency psychiatric services.
Prevention is Key: Act Early and Support Your Child
While the number of preteen suicides is relatively low compared to older age groups, the steady increase in these tragic deaths is a clear call to action. Experts urge parents and caregivers to trust their instincts and act early if they notice behavioural changes or warning signs in their children.
With proper care, early intervention, and emotional support, the devastating rise in preteen suicide can be addressed, potentially saving lives.
