By Russell R. Barksdale
Ensuring the well-being of our children is always touted as a primary focus for any community, reportedly backed by adequate resources and attention. Ongoing research sadly underscores the pressing nature of this concern, prompting a necessary reevaluation of our collective endeavors.
According to the 2021 Connecticut School Health Survey, 14.1% of high school students contemplated suicide in the past year. Moreover, over the past 15 years, there has been a concerning increase in reports of individuals experiencing feelings of sadness or hopelessness, rising from 24.8% in 2005 to 35.6% in 2021. Shockingly, less than a quarter accessed assistance for their emotional distress.
Suicide has tragically remained one of the leading causes of death for youth in both the United States and Connecticut since 2015, highlighting the continued urgency of addressing this issue despite gaps in recent statistics (CDC, 2023).
However, simply acknowledging these challenges is not enough; proactive steps seem essential. It’s vital to ensure that our community, schools, and healthcare providers are well-trained in evidence-based assessments and interventions. Equally important is empowering parents and families with knowledge about early behavioral indicators and available resources to provide timely support.
Even subtle changes in behavior, such as withdrawal from social activities, anxiety, sleep disturbances, or mood swings, can indicate distress. Over utilization of social media may not be a principal cause, but rather a facilitator or accelerator of behaviors that are more primary. Support is accessible through local Human Services or Health Departments, as well as by calling or texting 988.
Research shows that rates of suicidal thoughts can vary across age groups and are influenced by factors like life stage, social pressures, access to support, and mental health conditions.
Adolescents and Young Adults (12-24 years old): This age group often experiences significant stress related to academic pressure, social relationships, identity formation, and peer influences. Suicidal ideation rates tend to be higher among adolescents and young adults compared to other age groups.
Research does not define a single root cause for the rise in suicidal ideation, as it’s typically the result of a complex interplay of various factors. However, some common contributors may include:
Academic Pressure: Intense academic pressure and high expectations can take a toll on mental health. Fear of failure, perfectionism, and excessive workload can contribute to stress, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness. Use of “study drugs” or the inappropriate use of prescription stimulants is also on the rise. One in four high school students report misusing a prescription study drug during the last 12 months and up to one in five of college students reportedly abuse study drugs. Side effects can include depression, insomnia, mood swings, and nervousness—all of which are similar symptoms to other mental health diagnosis.
Bullying: Children who are bullied at school or online are at a higher risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts. The rise of cyberbullying, coupled with traditional forms of bullying, can exacerbate this issue.
Social Isolation: Children who feel socially isolated or disconnected from peers and family members may be more vulnerable to suicidal ideation. Factors such as frequent relocation, family breakdowns, or lack of supportive relationships can contribute to feelings of loneliness and despair.
Substance Use Disorders: Alcohol, prescription, or other drug use is a significant risk factor for suicidal ideation among adolescents. Easy access to drugs and alcohol, coupled with peer pressure and curiosity, can lead to experimentation and even addiction.
Mental Health Disorders: Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can significantly increase the risk of suicidal ideation in children and can go undiagnosed. The prevalence of these disorders among children and adolescents has been increasing in recent years.
Communities can make a difference by prioritizing education and resource allocation to gradually reduce the stigma around mental health. Encouraging individuals to speak up about their struggles, including thoughts of suicide, is crucial in addressing early on.
In our intricate world, there are children who carry burdens beneath their smiles, shielding their struggles from view. Trapped within the grasp of despair, they long for comfort and a sanctuary where they can share their inner unrest. By incorporating approaches grounded in evidence, such as prevention strategies and the cultivation of resilience, coping mechanisms, and mental well-being, we can make profound strides in thwarting suicide ideations and safeguarding the well-being of our youth.
By addressing these issues comprehensively, we must work together to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, enhance mindful wellness, and foster open discussions about challenges and stressors, ultimately preventing a tragic outcome for a family and community.
Russell R. Barksdale, Jr., PHD, MPA/MHA, FACHE President and CEO Waveny LifeCare Network
