Suicide Attempts Among Children Rose During Pandemic

The CDC recently updated its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report with statistics from its various Poison Control centers. This particular analysis looked at calls about suicide attempts by minors using medication (either over the counter or prescription). The CDC found that the attempts rose by an eye-popping 30% during the pandemic, with the largest increase among children ages 10-12.

The CDC did not provide any additional in-depth analysis of the data, so we don’t know whether there was any correlation between particular pandemic measures, such as extended online schooling or strict protection rules, and the increase in attempts. We also do not know what mental health measures might have helped in some areas.

There is no doubt that our children’s mental health suffered during the pandemic, and that the problems still continue. Unfortunately, there aren’t any clear answers about what to do. The CDC report offers the usual word salad about “partnerships“ and “a comprehensive public health approach.” The website, however, does not have any evidence-based research about which partnerships or comprehensive approaches have helped depressed and suicidal children.

The best answers we have at the moment tell us that exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy are the most effect treatments for depression and suicidal ideation. Our best option at the moment is to find ways to extend those therapies to more children in crisis.