A Cry for Help: The Tragic Rise of Suicide among Black Youth

A Cry for Help: The Tragic Rise of Suicide among Black Youth

I still remember the anguished scream over the phone—a mother in tears after learning her daughter’s classmate had died by suicide. It’s a sound that haunts me, a reminder of the urgent need to protect our children. An African proverb says, "You measure the value of a society based on the well-being of its children." But today, our Black youth are in crisis, with suicide rates among them rising alarmingly.

The Alarming Statistics

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), between 2018 and 2021, suicide rates among Black youth aged 10 to 24 increased by 36%—the highest rise among any racial group. Even more shocking, Black children aged 5 to 12 are twice as likely to die by suicide as their white peers [CDC, 2023]. These numbers are a wake-up call. As parents and mental health professionals, we must act now to reverse this trend.

Understanding the Root Causes

The rise in suicide among Black youth is not happening in a vacuum. Internalized racism, generational trauma, and the stigma surrounding mental health in Black communities all contribute to this crisis. For years, many in our communities believed that suicide was a "white thing." This dangerous myth has prevented many from seeking help, allowing feelings of despair to fester.

Research shows that children diagnosed with ADD/ADHD are 73% more likely to experience suicidal thoughts compared to those with other mental health diagnoses [Sheftall, 2022]. Furthermore, Black youth who die by suicide often face additional challenges, such as legal problems, relationship struggles, substance use, and depression. These factors, combined with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), like abuse or neglect, significantly increase the risk of suicide [Ashworth et al., 2023].

Actionable Steps for Prevention

The good news is that there are steps we can take to protect our children and break this cycle of despair. Here are some actionable strategies for both parents and mental health professionals:

1. Foster Open Communication: Create a safe space where children feel comfortable discussing their feelings without judgment. Encourage them to talk about their day, their struggles, and their emotions. Normalize conversations around mental health and let them know it’s okay to ask for help.

2. Recognize the Warning Signs: Be aware of the key indicators of suicide risk: suicidal ideations, access to means (such as firearms or medication), and having a plan. Other signs include withdrawing from friends and family, sudden changes in behavior, and expressing feelings of hopelessness.

3. Strengthen Protective Factors: Protective factors, such as strong family bonds, community support, and involvement in positive activities, can mitigate the risk of suicide. Ensure your child has access to these resources and reinforce their importance.

4. Address Stigma Head-On: Mental health stigma can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need. As a community, we need to break the silence around mental health issues. Encourage the use of mental health services, and if you’re a professional, ensure your practice is welcoming and culturally sensitive.

5. Incorporate Trauma-Informed Care: For mental health professionals, using a trauma-informed approach is critical. Understanding how generational trauma impacts Black youth can help tailor interventions that are more effective and empathetic.

6. Educate and Empower: Knowledge is power. Educate yourself and others about the risk factors and warning signs of suicide. Share resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline ([988lifeline.org](https://988lifeline.org/)), which provides immediate help and support.

A Message of Hope

While the statistics are grim, there is hope. By addressing mental health stigma, fostering open communication, and ensuring our youth have the support they need, we can turn the tide. Remember, it takes a village to raise a child—and to protect one.

Stay Informed and Connected

Stay tuned for more information on how to talk to youth about suicide. Together, we can create a future where our children thrive, not just survive. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact [988](https://988lifeline.org/) for immediate assistance.

References

1. Ashworth, F., Hogg, S., & Duncan, E. (2023). Childhood abuse and the risk of suicide: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 290, 112-123. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2023.01.013

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Increasing suicide rates among Black youth: A public health crisis. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 72(6), 133-138. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7206a4

3. Sheftall, A. H., et al. (2022). Suicide risk among Black youth: The role of ADHD and other mental health diagnoses. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 61(1), 34-44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaac.2021.12.005