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Teen suicides continue to become a growing problem in the United States.

Did you know that younger children are affected as well?

In fact, more than 4,600 people in the United States, ages 10 to 24, are killed by suicide each year.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced a 75% increase in childhood suicide.

But what causes a young child to have these thoughts?

Some factors include divorce and family problems, bullying, low self-esteem , pressures to succeed and depression.

So what if your child knows someone who is pondering these thoughts?

Mark Twain Behavioral Health Center Clinical Director Angela Caraway sums it up in one point.

"I think what kids need to do is remember one statement and phrase. You would rather have a mad friend than a dead friend. You need to tell an adult you need to get them the help they need," Caraway said.

For more information on youth suicide, depression and bullying visit the links below.

Suicide Prevention 

Youth Prevention Program 

Missouri Department of Mental Health 

Contact Information:

Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ( 1-800-273-TALK)

For local Crisis Line help dial (1-800-356-5395)

Mark Twain Behavioral Health Center dial (660-665-4612)

Preferred Family Healthcare dial (660-665-1962)