Youth Suicide Surges in Americas

By Pat Chen

Suicide rates among adolescents and young adults in the Americas have surged by an alarming 38% over the past two decades, with the sharpest rise observed in children aged 10 to 14. This critical public health crisis saw over 18,000 young lives lost to suicide in 2021, prompting urgent calls from PAHO for strengthened prevention efforts and timely support.

paho.org reports: Suicide rates among adolescents and young adults in the Americas have increased by 38% over the past two decades, according to a new study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Americas.
In 2021, over 18,000 young people aged 10 to 24 died by suicide in the region, as reported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
The sharpest rise in suicide rates was observed in the 10 to 14 age group, highlighting a critical public health concern.
PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa emphasized that the 38% rise in youth suicide rates, compared to a 17% increase in the general population, serves as "a wake-up call."
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is urging for strengthened prevention efforts and timely support for this vulnerable young population.

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