I recently attended a conference in Columbus with multiple behavioral healthcare providers from across Ohio. During the initial Keynote Address, Director Lori Criss from the Ohio Department of Mental health and Addiction clearly outlined Governor DeWine’s plan to address mental health and addiction for Ohioans. Of particular concern was the growing numbers of Suicide in Ohio, especially among youth. While I had experienced some of this disturbing trend in parts of northwest Ohio, the National picture was less clear.
During break I walked to the lobby of the hotel the conference was being held at and happened to see a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) lying on a table. There, under WSJ’s US News section, was the lead article entitled: Youth Suicides, Homicides on the Rise. The article noted the following unsettling suicide statistics from a national perspective:
- The suicide rate among those ages 10 to 24 years old increased 56% between 2007 and 2017.
- In 2017, suicide was the second-leading cause of death among those age 10 to 24 behind unintentional injuries such as car crashes or overdoses.
- Suicide rates in general have increased in the US across all ages and ethnic groups, rising 30% from 1999 to 2016.
I have the blessing of working with a highly competent clinical staff and could readily process this updated information. However, I wanted to hear from a “younger” group. Consequently, later that night at dinner, I asked my children about this. They are 14 (twins) and 11 years old and in the heart of school, youth related stress, social media and other various pressures given their age, exposure to technology and developmental demands. I asked what they knew about suicide and, furthermore why they felt it was increasing. They readily knew about suicide and admittedly have friends who struggle with stress and often feel sad. I probed deeper and inquired about what they thought might be causing this increase? Unequivocally they replied that the demands from school and social media were at the forefront. In fact, because many of their peers had access to social medial via a cell phone, IPad or home computer, access to school and peers rarely turned off. Ironically, despite being connected now more than ever, their peers often feel like they are left out of events, the popular circle, chats, Tik Toks, etc. There is even a term kids use today called FOMO– Fear of Missing Out. Additionally, the access to social media has consistently exposed youth to an ideal body size, hairstyle, clothing and the latest technologies. Keeping up with this adds to stress and sadness reportedly.
So what can be done? As a parent or care taker, we can take a more firmer role that shuts down or limits access to social media especially for the younger crowd. Start with simply putting the electronics in a basket when kids get home from school for a time period. Additionally, use apps to limit access to certain social media websites. Limit monthly data access via Family Plans through your phone carrier. Shut of electronics minimally an hour before bed time. These potentially new rules will be a challenge to institute but worth the reward.
With the Electronics void in play, as a Parent or Guardian, you will need to be more accessible and available attention wise. Dinner time together is a good place to start even if it means 20 minutes and sharing left overs. Ask about your loved one’s day at school, friends, or upcoming plans. It may take time to break the silence and you may have to take the lead first sharing your day , but eventually the dialogue will get rolling.
Also, know the signs of depression. You can access these at: https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/detecting-depression#1
Get help/Don’t wait. If you notice depression, namely a change in your loved ones behavior, appearance, grades, mood, sleeping/eating patterns, or friends, and/or loss of interest in activities that use to make him/her happy, seek professional help. A good place to start can be your primary care doctor or school counselor. A Renewed Mind is also her to support you and your loved ones. We provide timely access to care, thorough assessments, competent counseling for all ages, and results. Depression and Suicide are serious issues to address immediately. Let A Renewed Mind help today.
By Matthew D. Rizzo, CEO & President, A Renewed Mind
