Sharp Rise In Self-Harm Cases Among Elementary-Age Children

New research reveals a dramatic surge in self-harm incidents among children aged 6 to 12 years. Scientists examined over 1.5 million U.S. poison control center reports spanning 2000 to 2023. While general substance exposures in children increased more than 50 percent, suspected suicide or self-harm cases jumped up to fourfold. Study co-author Dr. Hannah Hays from Nationwide Children’s Hospital reported that among 11-year-olds, self-harm cases climbed 398% since 2000, with 12-year-olds showing a 343% increase. “These cases were far more likely to result in serious medical outcomes or hospitalization for these children,” Hays told CNN. Pain medications, antihistamines, cold remedies, vitamins and other household substances were frequently involved. Hays recommends securing medications, and noted that blister packaging creates crucial delay time. (Story URL)