SUICIDE AMONG CHILD & YOUTH:BASIC KNOWLEDGE AND SUGGESTIONS FOR A BETTER SUPPORT

ABSTRACT : The perception of suicide by public authorities has changed over the centuries. Once considered a true crime committed against oneself, suicide is today accepted and treated as the result of an advanced victimization combining both personal and societal causes, which can only be welcomed. This evolution of morals benefits both adults and minors in pain. Yet, over the past twenty years, suicide rates, especially among younger population, have continued to increase. An urgent call for responsibility and support therefore seems crucial to us to reverse this sad reality, emphasizing that these efforts go far beyond the boundaries of any single institution, profession, or family. Given that suicide is not a brutal and unpredictable reality but that it generally takes place gradually, this article will present the different stages of the suicidal process and define them using simple words. Then, it will report the most recent official US data on the number of Children and Youth confronted with suicide, before explaining how the decriminalization of suicide and the recent recognition of the status of victim for deceased persons and survivors, is extremely protective. Finally, as usual, you will find specific advice to avoid fatal outcomes and build a protective environment. From educators and healthcare providers to neighbors and policymakers, let’s be attentive, informed, and engaged with young people of our families, and communities.
Let’s Protect Children Together!
 
EXCERPT : “Suicide represents the most severe outcome in what is commonly referred to as the suicidal process or cycle. This article will systematically describe each stage, presented in order of decreasing severity for a better understanding, beginning with suicide, followed (…)"