Suicide at any age is a very disturbing event. Death by suicide leaves grieving family and friends confused, feeling guilty, and angry in addition to their sadness. When the death is that of a young person the loss is much worse.
The Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) ranks suicide as a leading cause of death for children and teens. For ages 5-9 years suicide is rarer than other age groups, but scarily enough it has been ranked as the 10th leading cause of death. For ages 10-14 (children and preteens) Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death and in some states, it is the top cause. For age 15-18/18 -24, suicide is the second or third leading cause of death.
Parents and adults working closely with children/teenagers should be aware that all children could be at risk for suicide. Young people of all races, all ethnicities, all gender identities, sexual orientations, income levels and community backgrounds die by suicide every year. Teens that have not been diagnosed with any mental health issues can still be at risk. While it could be just a passing mood it is important to stay tuned and aware of changes in behavior, sleep patterns, appetite and social activities.
Suicide risks factors are the following: loss of a loved one by death, divorce, deployment; bullying; discrimination, rejection or hostility due to gender identity or sexual orientation; racism, and related inequities and stressors; stigma of mental health or suicide; witnessing or suffering violence or domestic abuse; financial instability that cause worry and insecurity; suicide in their school or friend groups; and major life-changing events such as a breakup with a dating partner, academic disappointment or a major health issue.
Healthychildren.org has some suggestions for concerned parents. It is important that they know you are trying to create a safe space where the teen can trust their parents to listen.
They should get help immediately by calling 988 which is the Suicide & Crisis Hotline which offers 24/7 support in English, Spanish and other languages. 988 is not only for active suicidal crisis but can also support families and teens experiencing severe emotional distress, worsening mental health symptoms, safety concerns or overwhelming situations. If the child is at immediate risk call 911 or take them to the ER.
Creating a safe place includes removing items that have been used in suicide. Guns are used in half of youth suicides and suicide attempts with firearms almost always fatal. Guns should be removed or their parts located in separate space and securely locked. Remember knives, razors, other weapons. Medications and over the counter drugs should be locked up or removed from the home. Remember alcohol, illicit drugs, household cleaners, inhalants, antifreeze. Hanging or suffocation is another leading way to die by suicide. Remember ropes, belts, cords, even plastic bags.
Therapy is usually a combination of medications, talk therapy and stress-reducing techniques such as yoga. Encourage sleep and at least 60 minutes of exercise daily.
Remember 988.
by Sally Robinson, MD Clinical Professor
Keeping Kids Healthy
Published 10/2026
Also See:
UTMB Pediatrics - Pediatric Primary Care
UTMB After Hours Urgent Care