Being a teenager can be a time of major change. It can also be a time of stress and worry. Some teens feel that life is too much for them to bear.
There are a number of things that can protect kids from suicidal thoughts and behaviors. These include good problem-solving abilities and strong connections with family and friends.
Risk Factors
Youth suicide is a major mental health issue with tremendous consequences for the lives of young people and a large societal burden in terms of disruptive psychosocial and adverse socio-economic effects. It is a multifaceted and dynamic process that results from the interplay of numerous risk factors at the individual, family and community/environment levels.
During the adolescent years, kids experience many changes and transitions. This can cause stress and contribute to a sense of being trapped. Many suicide attempts are the result of relationship conflicts such as arguments with parents, friends or significant others. Bullying is another risk factor for suicide. Access to lethal means like guns or pills is also a significant risk factor.
Healthcare providers should be aware of the epidemiology, risk factors and warning signs of youth suicide. They should be familiar with the screening and management strategies that exist. They should advocate for research and implementation of evidence-based policies that are demonstrated to reduce adolescent suicide.
Warning Signs
If a teen is suicidal, it is important for friends and family members to take threats seriously and get expert help. This will help them feel heard and supported, which can lower their risk of suicide. Keep guns, pills and other lethal weapons out of their reach. Talk openly about their feelings and listen to them carefully.
Warning signs may include a sudden change in sleep or eating habits, withdrawing from people they usually hang out with or becoming obsessed with their appearance and hygiene. They also might have trouble concentrating and have a hard time managing stress from life events such as rejection, failure, breakups and family problems.
Sometimes young people who talk about suicide will never attempt to kill themselves. But everyone should always take these thoughts and actions seriously. A friend who talks about suicide should be taken to a hospital emergency department right away or seen by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist.
Treatment
Those who are at risk of suicide should have a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and treatment with psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. This should be done regardless of health insurance coverage or ability to pay. In addition, a patient should have access to a therapist who is experienced in treating suicidal patients.
Many suicides among youth are impulsive and appear to be related to the stressors that can occur during adolescence, such as depression, peer pressure, financial uncertainty, self-doubt, loss or disappointment. Having close and healthy relationships, like family and friends, can help reduce these stresses and help prevent suicide.
If your teen is at risk of suicide, be supportive of their mental health care and encourage them to follow their treatment plan. Also, be alert to any changes in their mood or behavior and watch for warning signs. Some teens may have more suicidal thoughts when first taking antidepressants or during the transition between different medicines. These symptoms are often temporary and can be treated.
Prevention
A number of strategies are available to prevent youth suicide. One such strategy is to teach people how to recognize warning signs. Another is to help them find services. Examples of this include gatekeeper training, suicide screening and outreach campaigns.
The final way to prevent youth suicide is to provide a safe environment. This includes a stable physical and emotional home. It is also important to avoid bullying or harassment. This is particularly true for LGBT teens, who are more likely to die from suicide than other teen demographics. Various campaigns such as It Gets Better and Born This Way seek to give youth hope, abolish the stigma surrounding their identities and help them stay safe.
Lastly, if someone you know says they are considering suicide, do not dismiss it as attention-seeking behavior. Even if they say they don’t mean it, take it seriously and encourage them to seek expert help. You can even offer to go with them, if needed.