Generational effects in self-reported age of onset for youth suicidal ideation, self-harm and attempted suicide: A retrospective analysis using data from the Australian National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing, 2020–2022.

This article examines generational differences in the prevalence and age of onset of suicidal ideation, plans, self-harm, and suicide attempts by age 25 using data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing (2020–22). The study found that Generation Z (aged 16–25) reported the highest risk and earliest onset of these outcomes compared with Millennials, Generation X, and Baby Boomers. Key risk factors such as adverse childhood experiences and lifetime mental health diagnoses were consistent across generations, though their impact varied; for example, witnessing parental violence and exposure to suicide were more strongly associated with earlier onset in Generation Z. The findings highlight the need for tailored, multi-sectoral suicide prevention strategies that address generational-specific risks and emphasize early intervention in youth populations.