Suicide in Mississippi--a growing concern

Every time the clock ticks down 42 seconds, someone in this country attempts suicide with success occurring every 17 minutes. Every hour and 39 minutes, the suicide victim is below the age of 15. Overall, suicide is the ninth leading cause of all United States (U.S.) deaths. For young persons aged 15-24, suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death and a growing problem among youngsters ages 5 through 14. Suicides in children less than 15 years of age has nearly tripled over the last forty years. Statistics show that among industrialized nations, the U.S. has the highest rates of childhood homicide, suicide, and firearm-related deaths. Therefore, the purpose of this article is fourfold: 1) to provide Mississippi's suicide statistics, 2) review suicide risk factors, 3) elucidate prevention and intervention strategies, and 4) relay available resources. Concerns for the development and implementation of needed prevention programs are also discussed.