African American boys age 5-12 are more likely than any other age group to succumb to suicide. It is imperative that we unite to both fully illuminate and mitigate this situation.
With rates nearly doubling between 1993 and 2012, suicide is now the third leading cause of death among African American youth (Bridge et al., 2015; CDC, 2014). For more information, please read the recent study written by Dr. Michael Lindsey, PhD, MSW, MPH, Executive Director, McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research at New York University and his team of subject matter experts.
The Central East Mental Health Technology Transfer Center (MHTTC) will continue its efforts to increase the awareness, skills and knowledge of behavioral and primary care practitioners by providing training, position papers, infographics and other resources.
If you would like to receive information on upcoming events, please email the Central East MHTTC.
Using national data from 2001 to 2015, Bridge et al. (2015) found that suicide rates among 5- to 12-year-olds were about two times higher in Black children than White children. Nationwide, suicides among Black children under 18 are up 71 percent in the past decade, rising from 86 in 2006 to 147 in 2016. Researchers cautioned that while these findings call attention to an important trend, they are unable to provide an explanation for it.
Schools are the institutions most consistently interacting with children and therefore can play and important role in identifying suicide warning signs and risk factors.
Learn more: What role can a school play?
Healing the 'Invisible Ache' Behind the Suicide Crisis Among Black Men and Boys
Still Ringing the Alarm: An Enduring Call to Action for Black Youth Suicide Prevention
A Look at the Latest Suicide Data and Change Over the Last Decade
Black Youth Suicide: Exploring a Public Health Crisis and the Role of Racial Trauma (Webinar)
Shame and Stigma: Re-imagining Masculinity and Strength for Black Boys (Webinar)
Social Influencers of Health and Suicide in Black Youth (Webinar)
Black Youth Attempt Suicide More than Other Racial Groups, Expert Says Don't Ignore Them
Youth Suicide Prevention and Intervention: Best Practices and Policy Implications
