Older generations show stronger links between suicidal behavior and factors such as childhood sexual abuse, substance use disorders, and long‑untreated mental illness.

A landmark Australian study led by University of Melbourne researchers finds that Australians aged 16 to 25 experience higher rates and earlier onset of suicidal thoughts, planning, self-harm, and suicide attempts compared with older generations, based on data from the National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing (2020–2022).

The researchers urge early intervention in schools and communities, better resources to recognize distress, strengthened family support to reduce home conflict, and safe online and offline spaces where young people can access help.

Crisis helpline numbers are provided for Australia (Lifeline 13 11 14; Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800) and are supplemented with international equivalents for the UK, Ireland, and the US.

The study emphasizes that there is no single cause of suicidality among Gen Z and notes broader societal pressures, including rapid social change, constant digital connectivity, economic insecurity, climate anxiety, and Covid-19’s impact on development.

Key risk factors for Gen Z include witnessing parental violence and exposure to suicide among peers, family, or online; the study also calls for online content policies to be part of a broader prevention strategy.

Kids Helpline data corroborate rising youth distress, with ever younger children seeking help; in 2025, 11% of 10-year-olds contacting Kids Helpline reported suicidality, up from 4% in 2012, and the average age of crisis support for suicide attempts has dropped from 24 to 16 years.

Gen Z exhibits the highest risk across ideation, planning, self-harm, and attempts, with the youngest onset ages among generations studied (Gen Z versus millennials, Gen X, and baby boomers).