Suicide and the rural adolescent

The rural family, with its particular stressors, is increasingly vulnerable to overwhelming crises. Adolescent suicide, although rare, may result from or add to that stress. The intent of this study was to identify and examine specific stressors with which a rural adolescent must deal, the coping mechanisms utilized, and when these fail, how it leads to suicidal behavior. Therapeutic modalities available to the troubled adolescent were examined and additional services suggested.