National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth: Transition Into Adolescence

The National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth is a comprehensive survey which follows the development of children in Canada. Data from 1996-1997 found that almost 7% of the 12- & 13-year olds surveyed reported that they had seriously considered suicide in the previous 12 months. Twice as many girls as boys reported serious suicidal thoughts in the past 12 months. Relationships were found between indications of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, family conflict & suicidal thoughts.