Suicide is a major issue for youths and should be taken seriously by family, friends, peers and professionals. Any changes in a youth’s mood or activity level, such as withdrawal, risk-taking behavior, and changes in eating and sleeping patterns are warning signs of possible suicide attempts.
Some teenagers will talk about their thoughts and feelings, but others may hide their problems or seek help elsewhere. The warning signs are:
Depression
Depression is one of the most critical risk factors for youth suicide. Youths struggling with depression are prone to feeling hopeless, helpless and despairing. Academic pressure, excessive alcohol consumption and frequent change of residence can also amplify these feelings.
Non-coping youths often seek relief from their emotions with drugs and alcohol. However, both of these substances have depressant and disinhibiting effects that may actually cause youths to feel more down rather than less distressed.
Those who interact with youths need to be aware of the warning signs that could indicate a problem. They need to be able to offer support and encouragement, and they should know the resources that are available. This includes a connection to a faith community and to family. Also, be alert to any relationship conflicts that arise and seek professional help if necessary.
Anxiety
The teen years are a time of major life changes and feelings of stress, confusion and fear may cause some youth to struggle. This may impact problem-solving and decision-making skills making suicide seem like a solution.
It is important to take any suicidal threat seriously. Even if the youth denies the intention of killing themselves, don’t trivialize the issue. If a weapon is present, make sure it is removed and consult a mental health professional as soon as possible.
Schools can play a role in prevention by promoting protective factors such as supportive relationships, school connectedness, academic achievement and active participation in groups that promote self-esteem. For further resources, visit the Jason Foundation and their website which offers educational curriculums and awareness programs. This statewide initiative encourages Californians to “Know the Signs. Find the Words. Reach Out.”
Self-harm
Self-harm (also known as self-mutilation or self-abuse) is a type of maladaptive coping behavior. It is an attempt to manage intolerable internal feelings of pain or numbness.
While some youth who hurt themselves claim to want to die, it is important to understand that the vast majority do not have high levels of suicidal intent. Even when death does occur, it is often unintentional.
It is important to have youth who self-harm assessed by a child and adolescent psychiatrist or by someone who can complete a psychosocial assessment. If they are found not to have a high level of suicidal intent, they can be discharged to receive treatment as an outpatient. If they have high levels of intent, they should be admitted to hospital for psychiatric treatment.
Relationships
The popular picture of a suicide victim is often an isolated teenager struggling with severe depression. It is also common to see that youths who attempt suicide have a history of abuse within their relationships, particularly in families or with significant people in their friendship networks.
Research suggests that it is important for youths to be able to maintain connections with friends and family members. Programmes that focus on strengthening positive relationships between teens and adults are key to reducing risk factors for suicide.
It is important to take all attempts seriously, regardless of their method or the intention behind it. Look out for warning signs such as rebellious behaviour, changes in eating habits or sleeping patterns, a decline in personal grooming and/or hygiene and a loss of interest in prized possessions.
Trauma
Adolescence is a time of tremendous growth and change. It is a period when youth must come to terms with rapid physical growth; conflicts between parental and peer values and ideals; emotional and physical intimacy with opposite sex; and career uncertainty.
When these significant life events occur, young people may experience intense stress and anxiety. This can lead to feelings of hopelessness and loss of control over one’s future. It can also lead to the formation of harmful coping strategies. These include self-harm and the use of substances to alleviate these feelings.
It is important to take any threats or talk of suicide seriously. It is a sign of serious mental health issues. Parents should not agree to keep a youth’s suicidal thoughts secret and should always seek professional advice.