Suicide rates for adolescents have risen over the past two decades. In 2019, approximately 1,600 teens between the ages of 12 and 17 died by suicide according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Suicide and COVID-19 Deaths by suicide in girls 12 to 17 began to rise in May 2020. In early 2021, emergency room visits for suspected suicide attempts were over 50% higher. For boys 12 to 17, the increase was just under 4%. When comparing the rate of teen suicide from 2019 to late 2020, there were approximately two times the amount of suspected suicide attempts every four months. Meaning, there have been more suspected suicide attempts since the start of COVID-19 in early 2020. This increase was driven largely by suspected suicide attempt hospital visits among females. Social Media and Suicide The use of social media by adolescents has been seen to impact mental health in recent years. Surveys of US teenagers show that teen depressive symptoms and suicide rates showed marked increases between 2010 and 2015, especially among females. The teenagers surveyed who spent more time on social media were more likely to report mental health issues.Facebook research revealed that Instagram has made body image issues worse for one in three girls surveyed. More than 40% of teenage Instagram users who said they felt “unattractive” said the feeling began while using the app. Those who spent more time on unplugged activities, such as in-person social interaction, sports, exercise, homework, and print media, were less likely to report these issues. The High Rate of Teen Suicide It is difficult to understand exactly why teen suicide is so high but the most likely causes of teen suicide carry risk factors that should be taken seriously. These risks may include aggression, disruptive behavior, substance abuse, and depression. These risk factors often play on the tumultuous feelings experienced by teenagers. Intense feelings can contribute to a teen’s sense of helplessness and to a general feeling that life is not worth living. Teen Suicide Warnings It is important to take the warning signs of teen suicide seriously and to seek help if you think that you know a teenager who might be suicidal. Here are some things to look for: Depressed mood or irritability Disinterest in favorite extracurricular activities Problems at work and losing interest in a job Substance abuse, including alcohol and drug use Behavioral problems Withdrawing from family and friends Sleep changes Changes in eating habits Neglect in hygiene Physical complaints (aches, fatigue, migraines) Difficulty concentrating or paying attention Declining grades in school Loss of interest in schoolwork Risk taking behaviors Complaints of boredom Does not respond to praise as before Teen Suicide Prevention Support is key to teen suicide prevention. Teenagers need to know that you support and love them, and that you are willing to help him or her find hope in life again. One of the most effective ways to prevent teen suicide is to recognize the signs of suicidal thoughts and feelings and seek professional help. Some of the most effective youth suicide prevention programs consist of identifying and treating mental and learning disorders, substance abuse problems, problems dealing with stress and behavioral problems (uncontrollable aggression and impulses). Through mental health counseling, teenagers can find the hope that they need to continue towards a brighter future. Pediatricians often offer depression screenings which signal when a child may be at risk of self-harm. Dr. Lisa Saponaroworks with pediatricians in Broward County and offers suicide prevention counseling at the Center for Psychological Growth and Wellness inSouth Florida. Located in the heart of Plantation, the center is easily accessible from Davie, Sunrise, Weston, Fort Lauderdale, Cooper City, and Southwest Ranches. Since approximately 40% of adolescents who die by suicide have been treated for a mental health concern, it is important to screen broadly for suicide risk to help ensure at-risk youth are not missed. Understanding our strengths and weaknesses is the first step toward making meaningful changes. Take a free screening below to identify your areas of growth. Parent Test: Your Child’s Mental Health Youth Mental Health Test Bipolar Depression Test If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs immediate help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text “HOME” to 741741.