Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to mental health, particularly among young people. A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights a significant increase in emergency department (ED) visits for suspected suicide attempts among adolescents aged 12-17 years during the pandemic. This blog explores how practitioners can leverage these findings to enhance their skills and improve outcomes for at-risk youth.
Understanding the Data
The CDC's study, "Emergency Department Visits for Suspected Suicide Attempts Among Persons Aged 12–25 Years Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic," provides a comprehensive analysis of trends in ED visits for suspected suicide attempts. Key findings include:
- A 31% increase in mental health-related ED visits among adolescents aged 12-17 years in 2020 compared to 2019.
- ED visits for suspected suicide attempts among girls aged 12-17 years were 50.6% higher during February 21–March 20, 2021, compared to the same period in 2019.
- While the overall number of ED visits decreased during the early pandemic, visits for suspected suicide attempts increased, particularly among adolescent females.
Implementing Data-Driven Strategies
For practitioners, understanding these data trends is crucial in tailoring interventions and preventive measures. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Comprehensive Approach: Suicide prevention requires a multifaceted approach involving public health, mental health, schools, and families. Collaborative efforts can create a supportive environment for at-risk youth.
- Evidence-Based Interventions: Implementing evidence-based strategies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and family-based interventions, can effectively reduce suicide risk among adolescents.
- Focus on Female Adolescents: Given the significant increase in suspected suicide attempts among adolescent girls, targeted interventions should address their specific needs and stressors.
- Enhancing Social Connectedness: Encourage social connections and peer support to mitigate feelings of isolation, which have been exacerbated by the pandemic.
Encouraging Further Research
While the CDC's study provides valuable insights, there is a need for further research to understand the underlying factors contributing to increased suicide attempts among youth. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in or support research efforts that explore:
- The impact of remote learning and social distancing on mental health.
- The role of digital interventions and teletherapy in suicide prevention.
- Longitudinal studies to assess the long-term effects of the pandemic on youth mental health.
Conclusion
As practitioners, our commitment to improving outcomes for children and adolescents must be unwavering, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. By implementing data-driven strategies and supporting ongoing research, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of at-risk youth.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Emergency Department Visits for Suspected Suicide Attempts Among Persons Aged 12–25 Years Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic — United States, January 2019–May 2021.
