NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — September is Suicide Prevention Month, a reminder of the challenges Tennessee continues to face with high rates of suicide among teenagers.

Suicide is the third-leading cause of death for teens in Tennessee.

“We know there are a number of factors — anxiety, depression and sleep problems tied to social media, as well as bullying that can happen online," Dr. Aaron Brinen with Vanderbilt University Medical Center said. "Add in academic pressure, rising anxiety, and what we’re seeing now is really an epidemic of loneliness and disruption.”

State data shows youth suicide rose 47% over a five-year period, according to the latest Suicide Prevention report. Emergency rooms also tend to see more visits from students this time of the year as classes resume.

"Young women are reporting more thoughts and attempts, and young men are more likely to die by suicide," Brinen said.

He added that access to treatment remains a challenge.

“There are huge waitlists—it’s really hard to get in to see someone," he said. "Once you do, are they getting evidence based treatments they need? Like cognitive behavioral therapy or dialectical behavioral therapy.”

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/tennessee-news/tennessee-faces-rise-in-teen-suicides-experts-urge-awareness/