According to an article this week in Psychology Today, "Suicide is the second leading cause of death among younger teens age 10-14 and the third leading cause of death among 15- to 24-year-olds in the United States (after accidents and homicides). Last year, one-fifth of all high school students seriously considered suicide and 1 in 11 teens attempted suicide."
The intense use of technology - specifically the constant connection via social media - is often included in factors that raise the risk of suicide in the teen population. However, growing research is showing that certain apps can actually make a real difference in reaching teens directly to help when they are at their most vulnerable. "A 2021 randomized clinical trial showed how short skills-based videos delivered digitally helped avoid worsening mental health in students. Behavioral therapy that uses mindfulness, acceptance, and regulating emotions was delivered to students by video, and researchers concluded this brief, highly scalable intervention could extend the reach of mental health treatment."
According the article, a 2022 review and meta-analysis found 80 studies describing 83 mobile interventions (apps) and showed effectiveness on outcomes like general well-being and distress as well as symptoms of psychological disorders.
Even the best use of technology can't replace human connection, however. In a related study, teens stated that they still prefer peer-to-peer interactions with a professional moderator, even if those interaction are hosted online. The takeaway for those working with teens who may be at risk for suicide is that it's okay to look outside the box for solutions. Connecting online, like most things, is about balance and seeking the good.
