A federal report reveals stable suicide rates among adults from 2021 to 2024 but shows a decrease in depression and suicidal behaviors in teens. The prevalence of serious suicidal thoughts in 12-to-17-year-olds dropped from nearly 13% to 10%, while suicide attempts fell from 3.6% to 2.7%. Factors behind the improvement are unclear, but increased openness among teens regarding their struggles and better access to specific treatments may contribute to the positive trend. The report follows the firing of the entire research team of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health by the Trump administration.
The new report shows that the prevalence of serious suicidal thoughts in 12-to-17-year-olds fell from nearly 13% in 2021 to 10% in 2024. This statistic indicates a significant decrease in suicidal thoughts among adolescents.
Jill Harkavy-Friedman emphasizes the importance of not keeping suicidal thoughts inside: 'Not keeping it inside and just sharing with someone that you're struggling can be helpful.' This approach may contribute to the decline in suicidal thoughts and attempts.
The report indicates that more teens are seeking help and finding it, with Harkavy-Friedman noting, 'More and more kids are getting connected with treatment. And those treatments are specific for suicide and suicide prevention.'
The analysis reveals that the percentage of adults with suicidal thoughts and attempts remained about the same between 2021 and 2024, highlighting ongoing mental health concerns among adults.
#suicide-prevention #teen-mental-health #depression #national-survey-on-drug-use-and-health #mental-health-awareness
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