The Devastating Statistics on Adoption Suicide

When most people think of adopted children, their minds often drift to the iconic movie Annie, where a young orphan girl is rescued from the clutches of her evil, incompetent caretaker, Miss Hannigan, who runs a dilapidated children's home. In this heartwarming narrative, the audience witnesses the transformation of Annie's life as she is taken in by the wealthy and benevolent Daddy Warbucks, along with his sophisticated and empathetic secretary who plays a pivotal role in her rescue.

This portrayal paints a romanticized picture of adoption, where the narrative centres around the idea of a saviour swooping in to rescue a child from their unfortunate circumstances. Additionally, figures such as Angelina Jolie, who has become a prominent ambassador for the UN and a vocal advocate for adoption, further contribute to this idealized perception. Many view adoptive parents as angels, selflessly opening their hearts and homes to children in need. They perceive adoptees as fortunate individuals who have been saved from a life of hardship and despair.

However, the reality of adoption is far more complex, and to be adopted is to understand that this simplistic narrative does not encompass the full truth of the experience. While it is true that there are many well-intentioned individuals who adopt children with the aim of providing them with a loving and supportive environment, there are also darker aspects to consider. Sadly, there are instances where individuals adopt children not out of altruism, but for nefarious purposes, including abuse and exploitation. The heart-breaking truth is that some children find themselves in worse situations after being adopted, facing trauma that can be more profound than what they experienced prior to their adoption. Furthermore, there have been alarming reports of children being returned to care after being adopted, as some families realize they are ill-equipped to handle the unique challenges that come with raising an adopted child, particularly those who have experienced early life trauma. In response to these troubling realities, some countries have taken significant steps, including closing international adoptions altogether. This decision has been driven by growing concerns over the trafficking and slavery of adopted children, which has been a disturbing trend in various regions. Authorities have recognized the need for stringent regulations and oversight to protect vulnerable children from being exploited under the guise of adoption. And corrupt government practises all over the world have been exposed: such as South Korea's mass exploitation of children who were not even orphaned children, yet still adopted anyway. Adoptees grew up believing their family were deceased and families grieved the death of a child that never happened. Such truths have drawn back the curtain on a very vulnerable and marginalised community, but still we need more awareness.

A recent study conducted by the Parents of Traumatised Adopted Teenagers Organisation (often abbreviated as POTATO) sheds light on the dire mental health challenges faced by many adoptees. The findings are alarming, revealing that approximately 40% of adoptees are at risk of suicide, with 1 in 4 having attempted suicide at some point in their lives. These statistics underscore the urgent need for comprehensive support systems for adopted children and their families, as well as a broader societal understanding of the multifaceted emotional landscape that accompanies the experience of adoption. It is crucial to recognize that while adoption can be a source of hope and new beginnings for some, it can also be fraught with significant emotional and psychological challenges that must be addressed with care and compassion.

I offer support for Adoptees and adoptive families and highly recommend the support of lived experience professionals if you are experiencing any form of crisis. To book a consulation with me, go here.

Sending you so much love,