The winter holidays are well-known for triggering mental health challenges in people of all ages. But teen suicide also often spikes in the weeks leading up to spring break.
Despite the season鈥檚 reputation for frivolity and fun, students are also dealing with stressors such as school exams, relationships and even existential crises, said Dr. Brittany Myers, a pediatric psychologist at MetroHealth System.
鈥淚 think of it as being the time when school's fully in swing,鈥� Myers said. 鈥淏y October, we're really in full swing in terms of academic demands. And in April, we're thinking about being mid-semester right after coming back from the winter break.鈥�
Suicide is a growing problem nationwide, especially for young people. among people ages 18 to 25 have increased faster than older adults. Suicide for Ohioans 18 to 27 rose by nearly 37% between 2004 and 2024, the fifth highest increase among all states. The national rate increased by nearly 20%.
In spring, Myers said, students are not only dealing with academic pressure but impending uncertainty about the status of their relationships and friendships over the summer. This year, she says, students are also feeling anxious because of political tension.
鈥淭here's a lot of changes that are happening all at once while their brains are changing and their bodies are changing with the increasing academic demand,鈥� Myers said. 鈥淚t is really just a high-pressure environment, and not to mention kids are aware of what's going on in the world. They're more aware than we think they are.鈥�
The state is taking action through its , which includes strengthening community systems of care, intervening early in cases of mental distress and collecting more data to understand risk factors.
A stronger focus on mental health in schools and an emphasis on meaningful and supportive relationships can help students find the support they need, according to mental health experts.
Myers also recommended that parents watch for warning signs of suicidality in their children 鈥� including withdrawal, big changes in sleep or appetite and passive suicide ideation. She says that sometimes suicidal thoughts can start small and passive, but can grow into an actual attempt.
鈥淪ometimes where there's smoke, there's fire,鈥� Myers said. 鈥淚t's good to follow up ... and treat (warning signs) seriously and ask further questions because oftentimes it can progress from there.鈥�
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, call or text the Frontline Suicide & Services Lifeline at 988.
