Youth suicide is rarely a sudden decision. Often, there are warning signs that can be recognized by parents or school personnel.
Children should be encouraged to tell a trusted adult about any feelings of distress. In the case of youth at risk, this should be a mental health clinician.
Depression
Depression is one of the main factors in youth suicide. It can be caused by a variety of issues, including mental disorders, previous suicide attempts and specific personality characteristics. It can also be triggered by psychosocial stressors and the availability of means of suicide.
The teen years are a time of major life changes, and these can cause feelings of stress, confusion and fear. It is also a time when people try to establish their identity and build relationships. These can be stressful and can lead to feelings of rejection, hopelessness and despair.
Some teens may attempt to escape these feelings by using alcohol and drugs. However, this can be dangerous as many drugs have depressant and disinhibiting effects. Research is underway to develop and test new ways to help teenagers with suicidal thoughts. For example, researchers are trying to teach non-mental health staff within the justice system how to perform evidence-based suicide screening. They are also testing the effectiveness of helping teens visualize their future in a way that is realistic and emotionally tangible.
Anxiety
Many youth suicides are triggered by significant events that cause anxiety and stress. In the case of young people, these can include the death of friends or family members, relationship breakdowns, bullying and rejection.
These experiences are not easy for anyone to deal with, but they can have a particular impact on youth. They are also often exacerbated by other factors that can be linked to suicide. These can include the impact of childhood trauma, poor parenting and ongoing stress.
If a child or teen expresses suicidal thoughts, you should always take it seriously and encourage them to seek help. Reassure them that they will be safe and supported if they seek professional help. If they are at risk of harming themselves or others, they need to get a health checkup to ensure their safety, followed by a mental health assessment and treatment.
Self-harm
Many youths who engage in non-suicidal self-harm (NSSI) have thoughts about suicide and some attempt it. They often see death as the only way to end their pain and suffering.
This is a group at high risk for suicide and they need to be connected to help and support. This includes mental health providers and community supports.
While adolescent suicide is complex and each death is unique, research on youth suicide shows that psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety are strongly associated with increased suicide risk. Other risk factors include family processes, previous suicide attempts, specific personality characteristics, genetic loading and access to means of suicide.
It is also important to assess for the presence of alcohol and drugs in teens who are at risk for suicide. Drug use is highly reinforcing and is frequently a contributing factor to suicides. It is essential that these youths get help and have regular, open and judgment-free conversations with a trusted person.
Trauma
Many youths who die by suicide have been involved in some type of trauma. They can be injured by physical, psychological or sexual abuse and/or witness a family member or friend commit suicide. This is a particularly important issue for young indigenous people who are disproportionately affected by generational trauma and poverty.
The teen years are full of major life changes and can be particularly stressful. Many youths are attempting to build their identity, establish self-confidence and develop healthy relationships. Intense stress and frustration can lead to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. In some cases, these feelings may be triggered by the death of someone close to them or relationship conflicts with their parents or a boy/girl friend.
This can lead to a feeling that life is not worth living and that suicide will be the only way out. It is vital that the trauma team recognize warning signs in these young patients and ensure they have access to mental healthcare.