Increase in Suicide Rate among Children and Early Adolescents

A recent study published in the journal Pediatrics reported an increase in death by suicide in children 5 to 11 years of age. The study also found an increase in suicide rates in black children, particularly boys, as compared to their white counterparts.

Katherine K. Dahlsgaard, PhD, Lead Psychologist of the Anxiety Behaviors Clinic at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, authored two guest blog posts for the Philly.com Healthy Kids blog with her interpretation of the findings and takeaway.

Even though death by suicide among children and early adolescents remains relatively rare, parents and teachers play a major role in recognizing the signs of suicide risks. Dr. Dahlsgaard provides trusted resources that teachers and parents can use.

Read the posts on Philly.com:

• What’s the takeaway from the latest data on kids and suicide?
• Trending data: A small increase in suicide rates for black boys