A new study analyzing data from over 40,000 adolescents across three major U.S. cohorts reveals a disturbing trend: suicide attempts among Black youth, especially girls, have surged at an alarming rate. Between 1991 and 2017, suicide attempts increased by 73% among Black adolescents, while rates for other racial and ethnic groups remained stable or declined.
The most striking finding is the 182% increase in suicide deaths among Black girls from 2001 to 2017—more than triple the increase seen among Black boys during the same period. Despite this, researchers note a “paucity of research” focused on suicidal ideation and attempts in this population.
The study, led by researchers from institutions including the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, used data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study, the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System, and the CHOP Emergency Department cohort. It is one of the first to examine suicidal thoughts and behaviors through the lens of both race and gender in such a large and diverse sample.
Researchers emphasized the need for an intersectional approach, noting that many previous studies lacked the statistical power to explore disparities along both racial and gender lines. This gap has left Black girls underrepresented in suicide prevention research, despite their growing vulnerability.
The findings call for urgent attention to the mental health needs of Black adolescent girls and the development of targeted interventions that reflect their lived experiences.
See “Prevalence of Suicidal Ideation and Suicide Attempts by Race and Gender in Three Large U.S. Adolescent Cohorts” (May 28, 2025)
