Depression General		During the period of adolescence, ages 11-19, suicidal ideation is not uncommon. Every year the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) generates data based on the Youth Risk Behavior Survey involving thousands of adolescents, primarily juniors and seniors in high school. Data from the 2003 study showed that 29% of these high schoolers felt sad or hopeless the year prior to the survey, 17% had seriously considered suicide and 17% had made a serious suicide plan. An important point to remember is that a reported 90% of teens who had completed suicide and 80% of those with suicide attempts had preexisting depression. Significant symptoms may be present for months to years prior to a suicide attempt or completion. 85% of depressed teens reported a suicidal ideation and 30% have attempted suicide. When you see any adolescent, any child really, in your office, you have to screen them for depression in some way. If you are using the HEADDSSS mnemonic in your exam, you will be pretty successful in at least broaching the subject with these adolescents and pre-adolescents. Return to top of page