Pediatrics Chapter 274. The suicide rate for children between ages 5 and 14 continues to be much lower but represents minimum incidence figures because official designation of a death as suicide generally requires proof of intent. Other factors may be a lack of structure and boundaries, leading to an overwhelming feeling of lack of direction, or intense parental pressure to succeed accompanied by the feeling of falling short of expectations. Early community intervention to support youths in such circumstances can be helpful. Early recognition of the risk factors mentioned above may help prevent a suicide attempt.
Every suicide attempt is a medical emergency.
Once the immediate threat to life has been removed, a decision must be made on the need for hospitalization. This need depends on the balance between the degree of risk and the family's capacity to provide support. A negative or unsupportive parental response is ominous. If the family shows love and concern, a positive outcome is more likely. Psychiatric referral is most successful if continuity with the primary caretaker is assured.