Alternative terms: Deliberate self-harm

The phenomenon of deliberate self-harm, often with a wish to die.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among adolescents, occurring at a rate of 10.8 per 100,000 among 15-19 year olds in 1992. Suicide is much less common among 10-14 year olds, at 1.7 per 100,000, although the rate of suicide has increased dramatically since 1950 among all age groups. Suicide attempts are much more common, occurring in 2% of adolescent girls and 1% of adolescent boys per year. Significant suicidal ideation (with a plan to commit suicide or intent to die) is more common, occurring in 5-10% of child and adolescent youth.

The suicide completion rate is about four times higher in males than females, while the rate of attempt is two to three times higher in females than males. Completed suicide may be greater among males because of their tendency to utilize methods of...