Pediatria pre prax 4/2022

Suicidal behavior and its neurobiological bases

Since the number of cases of suicidal behavior in children and adolescents is increasing, it is necessary to deal with this problem both from a societal and scientific point of view. According to the WHO, among adolescents and young people aged 15–29 years, suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in both sexes. According to several studies, the main causal factors contributing to suicidal behavior include a previous suicide attempt, non-suicidal self-injury and the presence of a mental disorder. Some risk factors for suicidal behavior show age differences. In younger individuals, the risk of suicide is associated with insomnia, stress, disharmonious development, substance abuse, and recent conflicts with their surroundings. Investigating the neurobiological causes of suicidal behavior is especially important in the population of children and adolescents.

Keywords: children and adolescents, suicide, neurobiological factors