Suicide Prevention
Saving the Lives of Black Children
Statistics show Black children are dying from suicide at higher rates than their peers. Learn the signs of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in your children and how to connect them with the appropriate resources
myths of suicide
Addressing the myths of suicide in the Black community
Myth: Children aren't at risk for suicide
Fact: Children, just like adults, have suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Especially Black children. Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death of Black children ages 5 to 11. Black high school students higher rates of suicide than their White peers in 2017.
Myth: Talking to your child about suicide makes them think about suicide
Fact: Speaking openly with your child about depressive feelings and/or suicide shows them they can talk to you openly about their feelings.
"Black people don't kill themselves"
Black people of all ages are risk for suicide. The CDC estimates 93,264 potential lives will be lost to suicide in the Black community before the age of 65 if current trends continue. Some risk factors for suicide in Black people include:
Exposure to violence
Psychological distress
Exposure to racial inequality
Substance abuse
Maladaptive coping skills
Myth: Praying and going to church will make suicidal thoughts go away
Fact: Church is a protective factor in the Black community which fosters a sense of belonging. However, if someone is having thoughts of suicide, they need the additional support from a licensed professional or doctor to ensure their safety and well-being.
National Suicide Resources
National Suicide Prevention Hotline (https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org): 1-800-273-8255
Trevor Project Hotline (https://www.thetrevorproject.org):Â 866-488-7386
The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (www.sptsusa.org)
Suicide Prevention Resource Center (www.sprc.org)