Dossier
988, the U.S. suicide and crisis lifeline
Coverage of 988, the U.S. suicide and crisis lifeline in the Nexus archive.
- Rise in US preteen suicide rate alarms mental health experts
The U.S. preteen suicide rate has risen significantly since 2008, with 194 preteens aged 8-12 dying by suicide in 2025, the highest since 2001. Experts cite stressors like the aftermath of the pandemic, social media use, bullying, and policies restricting gender-affirming care as contributing factors. A case study highlights challenges in accessing mental health care, including delays in psychiatric facility transfers.