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1 in 4 Teens Consider Suicide. Here's How to Help

EP Leadership
Sep 14, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Jul 12

If a teen you know has ever talked about feeling hopeless or not wanting to be here, that's not typical teenage moodiness — it's worth taking seriously and asking about directly.


If you or someone you know is in crisis right now: call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — free, confidential, and available 24/7.


Quick Answer: How Common Is Suicidal Thinking Among Teens?


In the CDC's most recent national survey, 20.4% of high school students — about 1 in 5 — seriously considered suicide in the past year, and 10% attempted it. Rates are significantly higher among specific groups: female students (13% attempted vs. 6% of male students) and LGBTQ+ students (20% attempted vs. 6%). CDC Whatever the exact number for a specific group, the takeaway is the same: this is common enough that every parent, teacher, and coach should know the warning signs.


What Are the Warning Signs?


  • Talking about wanting to die or feeling like a burden

  • Expressing hopelessness or feeling trapped

  • Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities

  • Giving away prized possessions or saying goodbye

  • Sudden calm after a period of depression


How Can Adults Help?


  • Ask directly. “Are you thinking about suicide?” does not plant the idea — it opens the door to help.

  • Listen without judgment. Let them share without rushing to fix it or minimize it.

  • Remove access to lethal means. Temporarily securing firearms or medications during a crisis measurably reduces risk.

  • Help them connect to professional support. Offer to make the call or go with them to the first appointment.

  • Stay connected afterward. Follow-up in the days and weeks after a crisis matters as much as the first conversation.


There's Real Reason for Hope


Since the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline launched in 2022, suicide deaths among 15- to 34-year-olds have fallen by 11% nationally — up to 18% in states with the highest 988 usage. AJMC Prevention works, and asking for help works.


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Frequently Asked Questions


Will asking a teen about suicide make things worse?

No. Research consistently shows that asking directly does not increase risk — it gives the person a safe opening to be honest about what they're experiencing.


What if my teen says they're fine but I still feel worried?

Trust your instincts and keep checking in. Persistent behavior changes — even without explicit statements — are worth a direct, caring conversation.


Key Takeaways


  • About 1 in 5 high schoolers (20.4%) seriously considered suicide in the past year; rates are notably higher among LGBTQ+ and female students.

  • Warning signs include hopelessness, withdrawal, and giving away possessions.

  • Asking directly about suicide does not increase risk — it opens the door to help.

  • Suicide deaths among 15- to 34-year-olds have fallen 11% nationally since the 988 Lifeline launched.

  • Call or text 988 anytime for free, confidential crisis support.


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