New Statistics on Suicidal Youth

Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new fatal injury data for Illinois.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death for middle and high school aged youth. In fact, we lose a young person (ages 10 – 24) every two days in the state. According to a 2019 survey conducted by the CDC, 19% of Illinois High School Youth said that they had “seriously considered suicide within the last 12 months.” That being said, suicide is one of the leading causes of PREVENTABLE death. Many times, young people who attempt suicide exhibit clear warning signs before an attempt. That means we have an opportunity to recognize these warning signs and intervene. By knowing the warning signs associated with suicide and knowing how to help, you could save a life.