title: Adolescent suicide problems.
abstract: Adolescent suicide is a growing problem despite increased awareness and programs to counter the destruction. There are myths surrounding adolescent suicide that contribute to our alarm at the increasing numbers. However, risk and protective factors along with prevention strategies and resources for help are available. Finally, the primary care physician has critical and pivotal opportunities for screening patients for referral and further treatment. Simple, discerning questions can allow the busy physician good insight into patients' mental health.
authors.affiliation: Oklahoma University College of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73120, USA.
authors.forename: Donna
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Hammond
authors.forename: Suzanne
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Whittlesey
authors.forename: Lauri
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Kearns
authors.forename: Sevim
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Bennett
authors.forename: Sandra F
authors.initials: SF
authors.lastname: Allen
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010819:Physician's Role; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent; D012307:Risk Factors; D013405:Suicide / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000092864:Suicide Prevention