Indiana Psychological Association News

PsychByte: Suicide in Young Children

Suicide in Young Children

Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death in children under 14. While the number of young children who commit suicide is less than the number of adolescents, thinking about death or suicide is a significant risk factor for all ages. Other risk factors include a diagnosis of depression, feelings of hopelessness, withdrawal, isolation, or rejection by peers. Research suggests that children and adolescents with suicidal behaviors seem to be influenced more by circumstantial factors than adults. Although rare, clinicians and parents should be aware of the potential for suicidal behavior in young children and have the resources necessary to treat those at risk.
 
To learn more, visit: http://www.apamonitor-digital.org/apamonitor/201612?pg=31#pg31  
 
Contributor:
Julie T. Steck, Ph.D., HSPP
CRG/Children’s Resource Group
 
"PsychBytes” is a weekly educational resource from the Indiana Psychological Association (IPA) provided for psychologists, their colleagues and their patients.