FRESNO (KMJ) – Suicide is now the second-leading cause of death for American teens…according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
The report’s author, Dr. Benjamin Shain says there are two major changes since the last report came out in 2007; the internet, and cyber-bullying.
Bullying is a significant risk factor added to the 2016 report.
“It’s horrible – they find that their emails are forwarded – that their posts are commented up on in negative ways, they are threatened – it has long lasting negative mental health effects.” – Dr. Benjamin Shain, Study Author.
Screening for risks is critically important –such as a history of physical or sexual abuse, mood disorders, substance abuse, and teens who may be lesbian, gay, or bisexual.
While unintentional injuries, such as drug overdoses and motor vehicle accidents still claim the most teen lives, the American Academy of Pediatrics is coming out with guidelines to help doctors and families spot the signs often leading to suicide.
