Suicidal Ideation And Behaviors In U.S. High School Students: 2019 Survey Insights.pdf

The report from the CDC's 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey highlights key findings on suicidal ideation and behaviors among high school students in the U.S. Suicide is identified as the second leading cause of death for youths aged 14–18 years, following unintentional injuries. The survey data reveals that during 2009-2019, there was an increase in suicide attempts across this age group.

Key findings include:
- Suicidal Ideation: A significant number of students reported seriously considering attempting suicide within the past year.
- Making a Suicide Plan: Some students had made plans about how they would attempt suicide.
- Suicide Attempts: The survey measured both the frequency and whether attempts required medical treatment. Many students attempted suicide, with some needing medical intervention.

Demographic associations were analyzed:
- Sex: Differences in suicidal behaviors between male and female students.
- Race/Ethnicity: Variations among non-Hispanic white, non-Hispanic black, and Hispanic students.
- Grade Level: Differences across grades 9 to 12.
- Sexual Identity: Comparisons between heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual (LGB), or unsure students.
- Sex of Sexual Contacts: Analysis based on sexual contact with the opposite sex, same sex, both sexes, or no sexual contact.

The report aims to assist decision-makers and practitioners in identifying vulnerable youths and directing prevention resources effectively. The full dataset and analysis methods are available through CDC's Youth Online platform.