Suicide rates among teens and young adults down in 2022
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Historically, suicide and mental health has been a tough topic to discuss.
But there is some hopeful news.
A new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says while the overall suicide rate rose in 2022, it declined for teens and young adults.
The report shows that the age group of 10 to 14 saw an 18% decrease. There was a 9% drop among in the 15 to 24 age group.
Sadie Hinkel, program director for the Kim Foundation in Omaha, said that decline could be attributed to many factors.
Resources like 988 have made it easier for youths to talk about their problems.
“They live in a digital world,” Hinkel said. “And so it feels much safer for them oftentimes to pick up their phone and text or call 988. Sometimes that’s easier than talking to someone next to them.”
She said it’s important to embrace the awkwardness of speaking up when times are tough.
“If you feel uncomfortable asking that question, seize that awkwardness, embrace it and don’t be afraid to reach out to the people in your life and connect with them.”
While there was a decline in suicide among younger people, other groups saw an increase.
The report showed a 10% increase in men ages 55 to 64.
Dr. Dave Miers, senior director of behavioral health services at Bryan Health, said the conversation for that age group is a bit tougher to get going.
He said some older people think they should feel depressed because “I’m losing my friends” or I’m getting older, my kids are getting older.”
“That’s absolutely false.” Miers said.
He said it’s about connecting older generations with the proper resources available to younger people.
“They’re doing a lot of neat things to help teach the kids those resources that they need, the coping skills that they need, that are going to help them be successful through their school years and into adulthood,” Miers said. “More as the older population, we need to continue to reach them with these resources.”
Miers said Bryan Health offers a dedicated mental health emergency room, which is open to anyone.
“We have one here that folks can come into 24 hours a day, seven days a week if they’re in a mental health crisis and in seek mental health care.”
Hinkel said if someone starts a conversation about their struggles, it’s best to be open and honest and acknowledge any changes in them and let them know their life is valued.
Then you can connect them to resources.
“Everyone — no matter who you are, no matter your background — can play a role in suicide prevention,” Hinkel said.
Further resources include:
Safe Reporting Guidelines for Media | AFSP
Facts About Suicide | Suicide | CDC
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
QPR Institute | Practical and Proven Suicide Prevention Training QPR Institute (en-US)
