Developing Policy to Prevent Youth Suicide. Policy Update. Vol. 21, No. 3

Between 2007 and 2017, the suicide rate among young people ages 10-24 increased by 56 percent, making it the second leading cause of death in the United States for this age group. State boards of education must ensure that students have the supports, environments, and education necessary to thrive. To lay the foundation, these policymakers can collaborate on a model suicide prevention policy. U.S. students face persistent pressures to juggle academics, social dynamics, and multiple responsibilities in addition to dealing with cyberbullying, social media, safety, and the availability of drugs and alcohol. As a result, many students may develop debilitating health conditions--anxiety, depression, sleep loss, substance use, and eating disorders--which can escalate to suicide ideation and attempts. This update examines suicide prevention policies in the United States. It also has questions and resources so state boards can help address youth suicide in their states.