Suicide in both adolescents and young adults has drastically increased over recent years. There are many ways to identify and approach an individual who struggles with suicidal ideation, self-harm, or attempts suicide. This guide provides current research and the effectiveness of the program in treating mental health issues in adolescents and young adults. In addition, the guide provides a walk-through of information that should be considered when selecting and implementing programs or practices for an individual.
Treatment and recovery for substance use disorders (SUD), serious mental illnesses (SMI), and serious emotional disturbances (SED) can vary based on several geographic, socio-economic, cultural, gender, race, ethnicity, and age-related factors which can complicate evaluating the effectiveness of services, treatments, and supports. Despite these variations, however, there is substantial evidence to inform the types of resources that can help reduce substance use, lessen symptoms of mental illness, and improve quality of life.
The Evidence-Based Resource Guide Series is a comprehensive set of modules with resources to improve health outcomes for people at risk for, with, or recovering from mental and/or substance use disorders. It is designed for practitioners, administrators, community leaders, and others considering an intervention for their organization or community. A priority topic for SAMHSA is ensuring the availability of effective treatment for youth with suicidal ideation or who have attempted suicide or engaged in self-harm. This guide reviews the related literature and science, examines emerging and best practices, identifies gaps in knowledge, and discusses challenges and strategies for implementation.
Expert panels of federal, state, and non-governmental participants provide input for each guide in this series. The panels include accomplished scientists, researchers, service providers, community administrators, federal and state policy makers, and people with lived experience. Members provide input based on their knowledge of healthcare systems, implementation strategies, evidence-based practices, provision of services, and policies that foster change.
Population of Focus: Youth
Links to Resources:
- Read the full guide
- Read suicide data and statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Explore suicide prevention resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Read the article, Suicidal Ideation and Behavior in Children and Adolescents: Evaluation and Management
- Learn about the 988 lifeline for suicide prevention
Date: 2022