NCJ Number
110520
Editor(s)
B L Regan
Date Published
1987
Length
80 pages
Annotation
The Maryland Governor's Task Force on Youth Suicide Prevention recommends that the governor and the State legislature fund a continuum of resources designed to prevent youth suicide and accessible to all youth in Maryland.
Abstract
The state also needs a focal point in State government to coordinate youth suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention activities by creating a Maryland Council for Youth Suicide Prevention in the Governor's Office for Children and Youth. In addition, the State should develop a community/school partnership to provide prevention, intervention, and postvention services using local, State, Federal, and private sector resources and funding. Between 1970 and 1985 a total of 1,520 documented suicide deaths occurred among Maryland youths aged 10 through 24. The suicide rate for these youths increased 180 percent from 1950 to 1980. Estimates indicate that for every completed suicide, as many as 100 youths attempt suicide. Thus, coordinated efforts are needed to focus resources on this problem. Implementation of the Task Force's recommendations will have a beneficial impact on other problems and will enhance the quality of life for youth and their families. Figures, tables, and appended background materials.