Youth suicide trends vary by country, gender

Suicide rates among youth differ widely by country and gender, new study reveals.

Why it matters

  • Suicide is a leading cause of death among young people.
  • Trends vary, requiring tailored prevention efforts.

By the numbers

  • Study covers ages 10-29, 2001-2023.
  • Stable/declining rates in most U.S., Canadian youth groups.
  • Increasing rates: Canadian teen girls, South Korean youth (especially young women).

The big picture

  • Suicide trends differ by country, gender, age group.
  • Prevention must be tailored to specific demographics.

What they're saying

  • U.S. rates leveling off/declining in some groups, possibly due to prevention programs (expert).
  • Public comments cite societal factors in South Korea, curiosity about Canadian data.

Caveats

  • Data reliant on national death records.
  • Conflicting reports on South Korea’s rates noted in comments.

What’s next

  • Strengthen and tailor prevention programs.
  • Further research needed on specific causes behind trends.