Suicide is the third leading cause of death for adolescents (after accidents and homicide) in the United States. Different demographic groups are more at risk for committing suicide than others.
Male adolescents are five times more likely to commit suicide than females.
The rate of adolescent suicide is significantly greater among whites than nonwhites.
Native Americans have the highest suicide rate of any ethnic group in the United States.
Asian Americans have the lowest rate of suicide.
The rate of suicide has tripled over the last two decades.
Some psychologists believe that the sharp increase has been caused by the high levels of stress that teenagers experience.
Several factors put adolescents at risk.
depression
hopelessness
perfectionism
adjustment difficulties
drug use
As many as 200 adolescents might attempt suicide for every person who actually takes his or her own life.
