Epidemiology of youth suicide and suicidal behaviorCash, Scottye J; Bridge, Jeffrey ACurrent Opinion in Pediatrics: October 2009 - Volume 21 - Issue 5 - p 613–619 doi: 10.1097/MOP.0b013e32833063e1 Psychiatry: Edited by John V. Campo Abstract Author InformationAuthors Article MetricsMetrics Purpose of review Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people in the U.S. and represents a significant public health problem worldwide. This review focuses on recent developments in our understanding of the epidemiology and risk factors for adolescent suicide and suicidal behavior. Recent findings The suicide rate among children and adolescents in the U.S. has increased dramatically in recent years and has been accompanied by substantial changes in the leading methods of youth suicide, especially among young girls. Much work is currently underway to elucidate the relationships between psychopathology, substance use, child abuse, bullying, internet use, and youth suicidal behavior. Recent evidence also suggests sex-specific and moderating roles of sex in influencing risk for suicide and suicidal behavior. Summary Empirical research into the causal mechanisms underlying youth suicide and suicidal behavior is needed to inform early identification and prevention efforts. The College of Social Work, The Ohio State University; the Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, and The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA Correspondence to Jeffrey A. Bridge, PhD, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Center for Innovation in Pediatric Practice, Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43205, USA Tel: +1 614 722 3081; fax: +1 614 722 3544; e-mail: Jeff.Bridge@Nationwidechildrens.org © 2009 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.
