FIU professor addresses “silent” suicide rise in preteens

Suicide rates among preteens continue to rise, yet no standardized, age-appropriate tools exist to screen children under 13 for risk. This gap is especially urgent because suicide is the fifth leading cause of death in preteens ages 8-12, and the second leading cause of death among youth ages 10–14.

“Suicide is a critical public health problem that everyone in our community should take seriously,” said Jeremy Pettit, FIU psychology professor and director at the Center for Children and Families. “While the numbers may be alarming, suicide is preventable. Parents, caregivers, teachers—everyone—can learn the warning signs and take action.”

Developing better tools

To address this critical gap, Pettit and his team—alongside collaborators at Yale University—are developing and testing new methods to screen for suicide risk in children ages 9–12, with funding from the National Institute of Mental Health.

“The current screening measures for children often leave out critical questions about suicide,” Pettit explained. “Through this study, we hope to create more effective assessments that allow us to detect suicide risk earlier—and therefore act sooner.”

Although the overall numbers of preteen suicides remain lower than in older age groups, they have been rising by about 8% per year since 2008, according to the National Institute of Mental Health—a troubling trend of significant concern.

Pettit warns that this upward trend highlights the urgent need for awareness and early prevention efforts.

The challenge is compounded by a shortage of mental health professionals and barriers to care. Many clinicians also report feeling underprepared to address suicide risk, calling it one of the most stressful and impactful aspects of their work.

Warning signs of suicide may include:

• Feelings of hopelessness
• Anxiety, agitation, trouble sleeping or sleeping all of the time
• Expressions of having no reason for living; no sense of purpose in life
• Feelings of being trapped — like there’s no way out
• Withdrawal from friends, family and community
• Rage, uncontrolled anger, expressions of wanting or seeking revenge
• Reckless behavior or more risky activities, seemingly without thinking
• Dramatic mood changes
• Giving away prized possessions

Pettit recommends that parents seek help if they notice a combination of these signs that interfere with their child’s daily life—or if their child simply isn’t acting like their usual self. He advises ensuring the child’s physical safety first and getting an evaluation promptly if suicidal thoughts are suspected.

“The biggest myth about suicide is that talking about it will encourage it,” Pettit emphasized. “That couldn’t be further from the truth. Parents should take all signs of distress seriously."

Getting help

The Center for Children and Families at FIU provides evidence-based treatments—in English and Spanish—for children and adolescents experiencing depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. Parents can call 305-348-0477 or email ccf@fiu.edu for more information.

If you or your child is struggling with suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7. Support is free and confidential. Spanish speakers can call 1-888-628-9454.

Help us advance science!

Pettit and his team are seeking parents of children ages 9–12 to help develop a survey that improves understanding of children’s thoughts and feelings, including thoughts about self-harm. Participation involves two brief Zoom interviews, and families receive $100 for their time. Children do not need any mental health concerns or diagnoses to participate. Interested parents can call (305) 348-1937 or click here to learn more.

They are also seeking teens ages 12–17 for a study offering treatment to help manage negative thoughts related to depression and suicide. Participants can earn up to $300, with referrals for additional treatment provided. Call 305-348-9880 or click here to learn more.