Suicide rates among young girls and women are climbing worldwide, including in Canada, according to researcher Seungbin Oh from Boston University. (Pexels)
Suicide rates in Canada have generally improved over the past 20 years. A new study shows teenage girls are the exception. Researchers found suicide deaths among Canadian girls aged 10 to 19 have climbed about two per cent each year since 2001. For boys, the rates dropped slightly each year over the same period.
“This steady rise is alarming,” said Seungbin Oh, assistant professor of psychiatry at Boston University. “While most young people in Canada saw stability or improvement, teenage girls remain at risk.”
Comparisons with other countries
The study also examined the United States and South Korea. In the U.S., suicide rates for teenage girls rose 3.4 per cent yearly over two decades, peaking between 2008 and 2017 before declining. Boys’ rates there dropped nearly three per cent yearly after 2017.
In South Korea, the rise is even steeper. Suicide rates for teenage girls increased nearly 11 per cent between 2015 and 2023, while boys’ rates grew about five per cent yearly. Researchers noted South Korea shows the sharpest upward trend among the three nations.
Global concern and causes
Researchers studied suicide data from 2001 to 2023 among youth aged 10 to 29. The findings reveal troubling patterns in Canada, the U.S., and South Korea compared to global averages.
Experts link the rising rates among teenage girls to pressures from social media, including body image expectations and online bullying. Oh also highlighted gaps in mental health care that fail to meet the unique needs of young women.
“There may be big gaps in mental care that don’t fully address young women,” he said. He stressed the importance of school programs, accessible counselling, and stronger online safety rules.
Need for tailored prevention strategies
“Suicide prevention is not ‘one size fits all,’” Oh said. He urged prevention programs designed by age and gender. The study shows that while some progress has been made, especially in the U.S., suicide remains a serious concern, particularly for young men and teenage girls worldwide.
South Korea shows fastest rise
The data revealed especially sharp increases in South Korea. Suicide deaths there climbed rapidly among young men and women, but the trend for young women is particularly concerning.
Crisis support available in Canada
Support services are available for anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts. Canadians can contact the Suicide Crisis Helpline by dialling or texting 988. Other resources include Crisis Services Canada at 1-833-456-4566 or by texting 45645. Kids Help Phone is also available at 1-800-668-6868. For emergencies, call 911 or visit the nearest hospital.
