5000 U.S. kids kill themselves each year. The teen suicide rate has tripled since 1960.

The risk of suicide increases when kids and teens have access to firearms at home. 60% of all suicides are committed with a gun.

The following are more likely to commit suicide: children of adults 65 and older, children of spouse abuse victims, classmates of suiciding youth, gay/lesbian youth, youth engaging in high-risk behavior (sex, drugs).

National Mental Health Association
(800) 969-NMHA

(800) Suicide or (800) 999-9999

Encourage the teen to talk to you or someone they trust. Listen to their feelings. If the person's words or actions scare you, tell him or her. If you are worried or don't know what to do, say so. At times, everyone feels sad, hurt or hopeless. Share your feelings and let the teen know he or she is not alone. Professional help is crucial when something as serious as suicide is considered. Help may be found at a suicide prevention and crisis center, local mental health association, or through clergy.

At age 16 a teen can refuse to be admitted into a facility for mental health treatment. It may be necessary to seek intervention through the court system. For an Emergency Hospitalization Petition call the local law enforcement agency.