What would drive a 9 year old to attempt suicide ?

Published: October 4, 2023

"What would drive a nine year old to attempt suicide?"

The alarming rise in suicide attempts among children, some as young as 9 years old, is a deeply concerning issue that demands our attention and understanding. These distressing incidents shed light on the complex interplay of factors that contribute to such tragic situations.
The narrative begins with a 12:12 am when I got a phone call from the hospital, signalling a crisis involving a 13-year-old who had ingested his mother's high blood pressure medication in a suicide attempt. Shockingly, this incident is not isolated, the last three months alone, I have attended to 15 children ages 9 to 17 and 8 of them have attempted suicide. This number is too high, and I am almost certain that my colleagues’ mental health professionals would agree that we are seeing more suicidal ideation and attempts in children than before.
One common thread in these cases is the immense pressure placed on children, particularly regarding their academic performance. Two children, were struggling with schoolwork, constantly feeling inadequate compared to their peers and siblings. They were overwhelmed by a relentless schedule of homework and tuition, leading to burnout and a sense of hopelessness. Such academic stress can be a powerful driving force behind these tragic events.
Another significant factor is family dynamics. In one case, a 9-year-old girl contemplated suicide due to her father's cancer diagnosis, fearing the uncertain future and potential relocation. A 10-year-old boy attempted suicide after a distressing visit with his father's other family, feeling unloved and abandoned. Several other children faced family issues characterized by violence, name-calling, and absent parents, leading to feelings of isolation and despair. A fifteen year old girl was tired of life, forced to liv with her grandparents while the mother stays away with her family in another town was too much for her emotions. She blames herself for her birth. She narrates that she has never known her father; the grandparents were great, but her other cousins who live in the same compound tease her and call her names. This girl has also gone through a lot of bullying at school and has been practicing para-suicide (self-harm).
Mental health plays a crucial role as well. Some children experienced overwhelming anger, impulsivity, and difficulty concentrating, often leading to poor academic performance and social isolation. These symptoms were indicative of underlying mental health conditions, such as ADHD, which went undiagnosed for an extended period.
Common symptoms among these children included low self-esteem, sadness, anger outbursts, and a sense of being unloved. Many also reported insomnia, excessive rumination, and self-blame.
So, why does this happen? It appears to be a complex interplay of factors. First, an invalidating environment, where children's emotions are dismissed or belittled, contributes to their sense of isolation and frustration. Second, biological vulnerability, including genetic predisposition and heightened emotional sensitivity, can make children more prone to emotional struggles. Lastly, ineffective social environments, characterized by family stressors and traumatic events, exacerbate the emotional turmoil these children face.
To address this pressing issue, there is a need for psychoeducation, where children are taught to manage their emotions independently. Relying solely on adults, who may also be dealing with their own stressors, is not sufficient. Additionally, parents and guardians must be educated about the importance of validating their children's emotions and providing a supportive environment.
In conclusion, the increase in suicide attempts among children is a deeply troubling issue with multifaceted causes. It underscores the urgency of addressing academic pressures, family dynamics, and mental health concerns while emphasizing the importance of emotional validation and support for young individuals.

Lynette Odidi (ICAP II)

Counselling Psychologist, Addiction Counsellor and CBT Coach