42% seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. Suicide attempt rates were lower among LGBTQ Gen Zs who were able to change their name or gender on legal documents, whose pronouns were respected, and who had access to places that reaffirmed their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Statistics for Gen Z in 2026 show a deeply concerning trend, with research indicating that approximately 17% to 20% of individuals aged 16 to 25 have experienced suicidal thoughts (ideation). A landmark study published in late 2025 found that Gen Z is four times more likely to report suicidal thoughts than older generations, a shift attributed to "unprecedented" social pressures and digital connectivity. Specifically, the data shows that about 5% to 6% of this generation have attempted suicide at least once. The crisis is particularly acute among minority groups; 85% of the recent increase in youth suicides in the U.S. has been among Black and Hispanic young men. Experts point to a "wave of untreated depression" fueled by social media bullying and economic anxiety as the primary drivers. In 2026, youth mental health has become a global policy priority, with a heavy focus on "early screening" and restricted social media access for those under 16 to combat these rising rates of distress.