Child suicides in Sweden, 2000-2018.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Background:

• Suicide is a major global cause of death in children and adolescents.
• While child mortality decreases in Sweden, prior observations noted rising suicide rates in this demographic.
• Understanding trends, demographics, and methods in child suicides is crucial for effective prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze trends, demographics, and suicide methods among children (under 18 years) in Sweden.
• To provide updated data on child suicides to inform public health interventions.

Main Methods:

• Retrieved data on all child suicides in Sweden from 2000 to 2018.
• Data sourced from the Swedish National Board of Forensic Medicine.
• Statistical analysis of trends, age, sex, and methods used in child suicides.

Main Results:

• A total of 416 child suicides occurred over 19 years, with an annual rate of 1.1/100,000.
• Suicide numbers increased by 2.2% annually (p < 0.001).
• The majority (96%) were teenagers (13-17 years); hanging was the most common method (59%). Firearm use, though less common, was significantly higher in boys.

Conclusions:

• The number of child suicides in Sweden is increasing, with a predominance of violent methods.
• Reducing availability of suicide means is an urgent public health priority.
• Tailored prevention strategies for children and adolescents are essential, even in settings with strict firearm regulations.