LOCAL NEWS

BYU researchers create algorithm to predict suicidal thoughts in adolescents

Nov 4, 2021, 8:12 PM | Updated: Nov 5, 2021, 6:21 am

SALT LAKE CITY — If counselors could predict which kids are most likely to commit suicide, they could save lives. Researchers from Brigham Young University, Johns Hopkins and Harvard have come up with an algorithm that predicts suicidal thoughts and behavior among adolescents. Their findings could lead to more effective measures to prevent suicide.

The team of computer science professors and public health professors was able to pretty accurately predict which adolescents will exhibit suicidal thoughts or behavior. They’re doing the research because it’s important to them and the community.

“I’ve had close friends that have had suicides in their family. For me, it’s kind of personal that way,” said BYU computer science professor Quinn Snell. “Our lab had been looking at suicidality and suicide ideation for quite a little while.”

He and his team analyzed state data from nearly 180,000 Utah students who took a student health and risk prevention survey from 2011 to 2017. They applied various algorithms and found a machine-learning model that predicts suicidal thoughts and behavior among adolescents with 91% accuracy.

Just as important, they discovered risk factors that are leading predictors of suicidal thoughts and behavior.

“The number one predictor of that was bullying,” Snell said. “Cyberbullying, and bullying at school and how safe you feel at school. But, right behind that was how safe you feel at home.”

Being threatened or harassed online, or being bullied at school put kids at higher risk for suicidal thoughts or behavior. But, so did exposure to serious arguments and yelling at home.

“This is something that sometimes as parents and school counselors we can’t see,” Snell said.

The researchers believe this is critical knowledge in our state because suicide is the leading cause of death among Utah adolescents, with an average of 660 suicide deaths a year.

“Maybe in communities, maybe in families there are certain things we might want to think a little bit more about. Maybe additional resources or additional energies might need to go to some of those areas,” said Carl Hanson, a BYU professor of public health.

But, not far behind those top three risk factors, they discovered adolescents who regularly eat together with their families had less risk.

“This could be something where you could target a program saying, eat a meal together, spend time together, but don’t spend time arguing together,” Snell said.

They believe the implications for our communities should lead to the development of better programs for suicide prevention. Programs could focus on helping adolescents develop stronger connections with their peers and their families.

“Those are huge,” Hanson said. “So, if communities are going to wrap their head around what to do, that could be a place to start.”

This research could have a big impact in school counseling, but also in clinical counseling as our community steps up to prevent suicide.

“I think our research speaks to the need of additional energy in certain areas of risk,” Hanson said.

KSL 5 TV Live

Local News

Police said a driver rolled their car in Taylorsville before fleeing the scene on foot Tuesday nigh...

Carlysle Price

Police: Driver rolls car, flees on foot

Police said a driver rolled their car in Taylorsville before fleeing the scene on foot Tuesday night.

6 minutes ago

One person was found dead inside a West Haven home that caught fire on Feb. 11, 2025. (KSL TV)...

Mariah Maynes

West Haven house fire kills 1 person

One person was killed after a West Haven house fire on Tuesday night.

1 hour ago

A newly released video captured the moment an SUV was hit by a UTA FrontRunner train in Layton on F...

Shara Park

New video shows FrontRunner hit SUV stopped on tracks in Layton

A newly released video captured the moment an SUV was hit by a UTA FrontRunner train in Layton on February 4. Fortunately, the driver escaped before the impact.

2 hours ago

The Weber Basin Water Conservancy District said the trouble with a chlorine smell began two weekend...

Heather Peterson, KSL NewsRadio

Chlorine smell and taste plaguing Weber Basin water users

Days after water officials said the strong chlorine smell and taste should dissipate quickly, residents still report stinky water in Davis and several other counties.

3 hours ago

Volunteer advocates supported Cancer Action Day at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Feb. 11, 2025. ...

Shelby Lofton

Survivors, patients share cancer stories, support for bills with state lawmakers

Dozens of volunteers filled the Capitol Rotunda on Cancer Action Day to advocate for policies they believe will end cancer.

3 hours ago

Huntsville, Weber County, is pictured on Oct. 6, 2021. A delivery driver died Tuesday, a day after ...

Collin Leonard, KSL.com

Delivery driver dies after being crushed by vehicle near Huntsville

A delivery driver has died after being pinned between her car and a garage, according to the Weber County Sheriff's Office.

5 hours ago

Sponsored Articles

luxury living room with a classic white sofa and sofa, interior design...

Lighting Design

Revisiting home lighting trends for 2025

Looking for inspiration to revamp your home lighting? This article outlines some of the emerging lighting trends for 2025.

holiday gift basket with blue tissue paper and gingerbread cookies...

Kneaders Bakery & Cafe

Holiday hacks for a stress-free season

Get more out of your time with family and loved ones over the holidays by following these tips for a stress-free season.

2 computer techs in a computer shop holding up a computer server with the "hang loose" sign...

PC Laptops

A comprehensive guide to choosing the right computer

With these tips, choosing the right computer that fits your needs and your budget will be easier than ever.

crowds of people in a German style Christmas market...

This Is The Place Heritage Park

Celebrate Christkindlmarket at This Is The Place Heritage Park!

The Christkindlmarket is an annual holiday celebration influenced by German traditions and generous giving.

Image of pretty woman walking in snowy mountains. Portrait of female wearing warm winter earmuff, r...

Lighting Design

Brighten your mood this winter with these lighting tricks

Read our lighting tips on how to brighten your mood in the winter if you are experiencing seasonal affective disorder.

A kitchen with a washer and dryer and a refrigerator...

Appliance Man

Appliance Man: a trusted name in Utah’s home appliance industry

Despite many recent closures of local appliance stores, Appliance Man remains Utah's trusted home appliance business and is here to stay.

BYU researchers create algorithm to predict suicidal thoughts in adolescents