The Dark Link Between Bullying and Suicide in Children

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 988
(24/7 via phone or text)

Written by Dru Ahlborg, Co-Founder and Executive Director of BRRC

Bullying is a pervasive issue in schools across the globe, impacting millions of students each year. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, more than one out of every 5 students ages 12-18 reported being bullied. The prevalence of bullying can have a profound psychological impact. Understanding the link between bullying and suicide is crucial for fostering a safer and more supportive environment for our youth.

Suicide is a complex issue that affects our youth at alarming rates. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention report nationally “youth and young adults ages 10-24 account for 15% of all suicides. It is the 2nd leading cause of death for this age group.”  In another study in 2024 reported by U.S.News and World Report states that there is an 8% annual increase in the number if American children ages 8-12 who died by suicide, with the sharpest increase seen among girls.

Often times there are other factors that play a part in teen suicide and suicide ideation. These conditions can include mental and behavioral disorders, childhood trauma or severe nutritional deficiencies. Bullying can also be a catalyst for suicide. According to a Yale University study, children who are bullied are between 2 to 9 ties more likely to consider suicide than non-targets. Children who have been bullied often experience feelings of powerlessness, anxiety and depression. Many will experience PTSD.

So what can we do? As parents, adults, educators and friends we can look for the signs.

Look for the signs of bullying:
Keep an eye out for sudden changes in children’s moods. Signs that a child may be targets for bullying can include them appearing more anxious or sad. They may have fewer or no friends. They may begin having unexplained headaches and stomachaches. They may want to quit extracurricular activities, no longer want to attend school or want to quit riding the bus. Their sleeping and eating patterns may change dramatically.

Look for the signs of depression:
Bullying often leads to depression, anxiety and hopelessness. If these occur, they should be addressed immediately. Some common signs of depression can include a sudden drop in grades, withdrawing, sleeping more, unexplained crying and aggressive anger.

Look for the signs of suicide:
Youth who are thinking about suicide may become very moody and appear hopeless. They can experience big shifts in their personality. Many times people who are suicidal stop contact with others and lose interest in day-to-day activities. Another sign is when they start to clean out their personal items and give away treasured things.

If you suspect someone is considering suicide, we strongly suggest you seek help immediately. It is okay to talk with them about suicide and ask if they have a plan. It can be incredibly scary, and it needs to be addressed. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available for caregivers and loved-ones as well: 1-800-273-8255.

As an organization, it is our passion to help lower the adolescent suicide rate. Bullying, depression and suicidal thoughts all need to be addressed quickly and thoughtfully. Children with mental health struggles can obtain help from mental health providers. As adults, we need to listen and walk through all these challenges with our youth. They are counting on us.

We are here to help families walk through the impacts of bullying. The quicker it can be addressed, the quicker a child can begin a road to recovery.

We stop bullying today to start recovering tomorrow.