UTAH: CDC Investigation Shows Youth Suicides in Utah Increasing

Utah Department of Health News

Suicide deaths among young people in Utah have increased, according to a recent investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Findings from the investigation showed that suicide deaths among Utah youth ages 10 to 17 increased more than 140 percent between 2011 and 2015, compared to a 23.5 percent increase nationally in that age group. The investigation found that risk factors for youth suicide included mental health issues, family relationship problems, violence, and substance use. Supportive family, school, and community environment were shown to protect young people from suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Based on these findings, CDC recommended that the state increase access to mental health care for youth, promote social connectedness, and consider implementing comprehensive suicide prevention programs that address multiple risk and protective factors. “No one prevention strategy will work to prevent all suicides, said Kimberly Myers, Utah Department of Human Services suicide prevention coordinator. “However, implementing comprehensive, coordinated prevention programs will be effective and likely reduce suicidal behaviors among Utah youth.”

Spark Extra! Read a summary of the findings.