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Rise in US preteen suicide rate alarms mental health experts
Federal data show 194 preteen suicides in 2025, and researchers said the rate has climbed 8.2% a year since 2008.
- Preliminary data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows 194 preteen deaths by suicide in 2025, the highest total since at least 2001. Since 2008, the suicide rate for this age group has risen by an average of 8.2% annually.
- Mental health experts like Dr. Prachi 'PJ' Striker point to COVID-19 as a major factor, noting that children now aged 10 to 12 spent their early elementary years quarantined at home without normal socialization experiences.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends universal screening starting at age 12, though researcher Lisa Horowitz notes that screening as early as age 8 can help identify risks and prevent psychiatric disorders in adulthood.
- Families often struggle to access psychiatric care, as facilities frequently lack capacity for younger children; the U.S. suicide and crisis lifeline, 988, offers immediate support for those in crisis.
- Experts including Jeremy Pettit of Florida International University cite persistent stressors—social media use, bullying, and sleep deprivation—that continue to impact preteen mental health and create particular fear for some LGBTQ youth.
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18 Articles
Coverage Details
Total News Sources18
Leaning Left16Leaning Right0Center1Last UpdatedBias Distribution94% Left
Bias Distribution
- 94% of the sources lean Left
94% Left
L 94%
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