Suicide by Poisoning Attempts Among Children Rise Sharply

The number of suspected suicide attempts by poisoning among children went up significantly between 2015 and 2020, according to a recent study by University of Virginia researchers.

Suspected cases of suicide (which includes attempted suicides and deaths by suicide) increased 26% among those ages 6 through 19 during the study period from 75,248 in 2015 to 93,532 in 2020.

Girls accounted for 77.9% of all cases.

There were 276 deaths among the self-poisoning attempts and 14,916 cases of “major effects,” which may include long-lasting symptoms.

The two most common substances used in the suspected pediatric attempted suicide cases were the over-the-counter pain killers ibuprofen and acetaminophen, according to the study.

All ages had a rise in suspected suicides, with the largest increase (109%) by those between the ages of 10 and 12.  

“We need to be vigilant for the warning signs associated with suicide risk in our children,” Christopher Holstege, chief of the Division of Medical Toxicology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, said in a statement. “Our study is one of a number that demonstrates that we are experiencing an unprecedented mental health crisis in younger age groups. As a society, we must commit more resources to the mental health needs of our children.”

Last month the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended early screening for depression and anxiety, stating that screening for anxiety should start at age 8 and evaluations for depression should begin at age 12, The Hill reported.

Task force member Martha Kubik said at the time the recommendations were released “to address the critical need for supporting the mental health of children and adolescents in primary care. The Task Force looked at the evidence on screening for anxiety, depression, and suicide risk.

"Fortunately, we found that screening older children for anxiety and depression is effective in identifying these conditions, so children and teens can be connected to the support they need.”

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