The statistics have painted a somber picture – a significant rise in suicide rates among Black children and adolescents.
Suicide rates among Black youth in the United States are growing at an alarming rate. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, rates among those ages 10 to 24 rose 36.6% from 2018 to 2021, the largest percentage jump among any demographic. A more recent study found that suicide rates among Black children and adolescents have worsened. Between 2003 and 2017, suicides rose among Black youth, especially among Black girls and among those ages 15 to 17.
Risk Factors Affecting Black Children and Adolescents
Experts say periods of isolation created by the pandemic worsened lived experiences already complicated by racism and discrimination, police brutality, distrust of the healthcare system, and a lack of culturally competent providers. Other risk factors to consider include:
• Mental Health Stigma: Stigma surrounding mental health can prevent families from seeking help.
• Access to Mental Health Services: Limited access or barriers to mental health resources can impact a family’s ability to receive proper care.
• Cultural Barriers: Cultural norms and beliefs about mental health might hinder open discussions and acceptance of mental health challenges.
• Systemic Inequities: Socioeconomic disparities, systemic racism, and lack of opportunities may contribute to stress and mental health issues. Black youth bear the tremendous burdens of racial discrimination, which has been found to be associated with youth as young as 6 years old. Research suggests those who experience racial discrimination are 3 times more likely to experience suicidal thoughts, consider suicide plans, and attempt suicide than those who do not.
• Historical Trauma: ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) such as domestic violence, financial hardship, or losing a parent contribute to suicidality. According to statistics, Black youth are more likely than their counterparts to be overrepresented in environments (e.g. foster care) where ACEs occur.
• Isolation: Social isolation and a lack of community support may exacerbate mental health struggles.
• Intersectionality: The intersection of race, gender, and other identities can compound mental health challenges.
• Media Influence: Negative portrayals or underrepresentation of mental health issues in media may contribute to misunderstandings and isolation.
Protective Factors for Black Children and Adolescents
Comprehensive financial support, social support, family investment and cohesion, religiosity, and a strong racial identity are crucial protective factors for preventing suicide among Black youth. Additional protective factors include:
• Comprehensive and accessible financial support: Financial concerns play a significant role after hospitalization and in accessing follow-up/transition care. Comprehensive and accessible financial support resources will ensure individuals can receive the care they need without the added worry of financial strain.
• Mentorship Programs: Establishing safe, supportive spaces forBlack children and agile scents such as mentorship programs that allow Black teens to navigate challenges with the help of positive role models.
• Community Engagement: Encouraging community-based initiatives that empower Black teens to actively participate in creating positive change.
• Parental Involvement: The pivotal role parents and caregivers play in creating a nurturing environment that fosters emotional well-being.
• School-Based Interventions: Implementing mental health awareness programs within schools to educate both students and educators about the signs of distress and available resources.
Teen suicide is a tragic and complex phenomenon influenced by various factors, including mental health struggles, family dynamics, social pressures, and environmental stressors. Addressing Black teen suicide particularly in urban communities requires a comprehensive approach that involves destigmatizing mental health, improving access to resources, addressing systemic issues, and fostering a supportive environment for teens to thrive. By raising awareness and actively working towards positive change, we can contribute to the well-being of our youth.
Self-help information and information from the internet is useful, but it is not a substitute for professional advice. If you are currently in treatment or in therapy, please consult your therapist, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional.
