Warning signs are flashing for teens in Central New York. State health data and local advocates report more young people showing signs of self-harm, and the message to families and schools is clear: step in early. Nationally, federal figures point to hundreds of thousands of emergency department visits tied to self-inflicted injuries every year, and state dashboards have flagged an increase in suicide deaths among 15- to 19-year-olds between 2022 and 2023.
As reported by Spectrum News, Central New York survivor and mental-health advocate Emily Crumb said she started cutting at age 11 and, after a suicide attempt, was admitted to an adult behavioral health unit while still a teenager. Garra Lloyd-Lester, coordinator for the Suicide Prevention Center of New York, told the outlet that self-harm often serves as a way to manage overwhelming emotional pain. He said families can lean on a FACTS checklist — feelings, actions, changes, threats and situations — as a framework to open up conversations.
State data show an uptick
According to the New York State Department of Health Community Health Indicator Dashboard, suicide mortality among residents ages 15 to 19 increased from 2022 to 2023. Prevention groups say that trend has prompted more outreach in schools and community programs, with a focus on catching concerns earlier and connecting youth to care.
National context
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports more than 616,000 emergency department visits for self-harm injuries each year and notes that suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Recent CDC analyses have also found increases in mental-health-related emergency visits among children and adolescents, a pattern that mental-health professionals say highlights gaps in prevention and access to early treatment; see the CDC for details.
Warning signs parents shouldn't ignore
The American Academy of Pediatrics' HealthyChildren.org outlines common red flags: new or worsening scars and gashes, wearing long sleeves in warm weather, jewelry or accessories that could conceal wounds, along with shifts in mood or sleep. The site recommends removing sharp objects and other potential hazards if a child is at risk. Parents and caregivers are urged to watch for sudden withdrawal, falling grades or talk of hopelessness and to reach out to a pediatrician or mental-health provider when something feels off; see HealthyChildren.org.
How to respond
Experts recommend starting with a calm, nonjudgmental conversation, listening closely and prioritizing getting the young person connected to help rather than downplaying their feelings. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For crisis and parent resources, visit SAMHSA and the Suicide Prevention Center of New York.
Crumb, now a nurse and advocate, told Spectrum News that connection through faith, therapy and community helped her find purpose in recovery. Local prevention staff say that while warning signs can be subtle, paying attention early and having clear paths to care can make a measurable difference for young people and their families facing self-harm.
