FRISCO, Colo. (AP) — A study finds that poor economies and the associated stress on families and adolescents is a common factor for high teen suicide rates in rural areas of Colorado.
The Summit Daily News reports the study also found risk factors common to rural areas include limited transportation options and associated lack of access to help, limited insurance and provider options, lack of funds and resources for mental health programs. Youth in those areas also have fewer people to turn to for help.
The study issued by the Colorado Attorney General’s office was conducted across six Colorado counties. The primary focus was on El Paso, La Plata, Mesa, and Pueblo counties, which have the state’s highest youth suicide rates.
Recommendations in the study include training people to recognize signs of suicidal behavior.