Need Help?
Call or text 988 for mental health support, including thoughts of suicide from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Learn more about 988 services in Kane County.
About Suicide
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death among those between 10 and 24.
- The suicide rate is higher among males; however, females have more attempts compared with males.
- Suicide attempts are higher among the LGBTQ community.
- Between 2007 and 2018, the national suicide rate among persons aged 10–24 increased 57.4%, with Illinois specifically increasing by 41.4%.
Warning signs to look out for, especially if a behavior is new or is related to a painful event, include:
- Talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless or trapped
- Feels like they are a burden on others
- Looking for methods and making plans to commit suicide
- Increasing use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated
- Behaving recklessly
- Withdrawal or Isolation
- Displaying rage and extreme mood swings
What can you do if you recognize these warning signs in a young person around you?
- Take their behavior and talk of suicide seriously.
- Support and listen to them.
- Encourage them to reach out to their healthcare provider or behavioral health resources.
- Call 911 if they have suicidal thoughts, a suicide plan, and the means to carry out the plan.
Resources
Adolescent Suicide Postvention Resources: Navigating Towards Healing Portal
CDC: State Suicide Rates Among Adolescents and Young Adults Aged 10–24: United States,2000–2018
CDC: Suicide Prevention Resource for Action
Johns Hopkins: Teen Suicide
Preventing Youth Suicide
U.S. Teen Suicide Trends
