Why Suicide Rates Are on the Rise in Schools
It's no secret that suicide rates are rising in the United States. However, what may surprise you is that this epidemic is affecting not only adults but our nation's youngest citizens as well. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide rates have increased in every age group under 75 since 1999. And while it's unfortunate that any life is lost to suicide, the fact that these numbers are highest among teenagers and young adults is particularly alarming. So why are suicide rates on the rise in schools? This post will explore some of the potential contributing factors.
Suicide Rates Are on the Rise in Schools, and It's a Major Problem
The statistics surrounding suicide are staggering. According to the CDC, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States and is one of just three leading causes of death that are on the rise. In 2016, nearly 45,000 suicides nationwide, making it the second leading cause of death for people aged 15-24. The problem is only worsening, as the CDC reports that suicides have increased by 30% since 1999 (CDC, 2018).
Reasons Behind The Rise In Suicide Rates in Schools
There are many possible explanations for why suicide rates might be on the rise in schools. Some experts point to the pressure that students face to succeed. In a culture where everyone seems to be vying for the best grades, the top spot in the class, or a spot on the varsity team, it's not surprising that some students feel like they can't keep up. This pressure can lead to anxiety and depression, both risk factors for suicide. Another explanation is that more and more students are being bullied. According to the CDC, 1 in 5 students report being bullied at school (CDC, 2018). And while bullying has always been a problem, the rise of social media has made it easier for bullies to reach their victims and make their lives even more difficult.
There Are Ways to Prevent Suicide Rates from Rising in Schools
The good news is that there are things that can be done to prevent suicide rates from rising in schools. One of the most important things is to create a culture of open communication. If students feel like they can't talk to their parents or teachers about what's going on in their lives, they're more likely to keep their problems to themselves. It's also important to educate students, teachers, and parents about the warning signs of suicide. If more people are aware of what to look for, they'll be better equipped to help someone who might be in danger.
It's Important to Talk About Suicide Rates and How to Prevent Them
The rise in suicide rates is a significant problem that must be addressed. "Ninety percent of young people who die by suicide have a mental health condition at the time of their death, often undiagnosed or untreated. Because children and teens spend so much of their time in school, trained teachers and other school personnel could identify students who may be at risk and get them the help they need" (Schiro, 2020). By talking about the issue and working to create a culture of open communication, we can help to prevent more lives from being lost. This article is meant to be informational and does not replace the advice of a medical professional.
If you know someone that may need help Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-8255
What are we doing to support students to make sure they are well? We do many things to support students, but I feel we are not doing enough. Do not ignore warning signs, get them the help they need immediately.
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References
CDC. (2018). Suicide Rates in the United States Continue to Increase. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db309.htm#:~:text=From%202000%20through%202016%2C%20the,2000%20to%2021.4%20in%202016.
Schiro, T., (2020). Chapter 2. In A Culture of Caring: A Suicide Prevention Guide for Schools (K–12) (pp. 11–24). [eBook]., Rowman & Littlefield Publishers.
SPRC. (1970). Schools. Suicide Prevention Resource Center. Retrieved from: https://www.sprc.org/settings/schools