For teens who are struggling with self-destructive or suicidal thoughts, help is available. Here you will find information and resources for parents, teens, friends and family, teachers, counselors and those who have lost someone to suicide.
Suicide is the third leading cause of death in young people between the ages of 14 and 24. Many more attempt suicide with the CDC reporting that in the typical high school classroom one male and two females have probably attempted suicide. An estimated 80 percent of teens report having thought about suicide sometime during the past year. These statistics are alarming and arouse fear and concern in everyone.
However, many suicides can be prevented if young people and those closest to them became familiar with and learn how to respond to the danger signs of a suicidal crisis, both in themselves and in their friends and family members.
It’s frightening to imagine that your teenage son or daughter may be experiencing self-destructive thoughts or is at risk for suicide. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among youth between 14 and 24 years of age and the fourth leading cause of death among youth between 10 and 14 years of age. However, most suicides can be prevented. It is important to know the warning signs in people who may be contemplating taking their own lives. Here you can find out what to look for and how to help a teen who is in trouble.
Suicide Warning Signs
- Disinterest in favorite extracurricular activities
- Problems at school
- Substance abuse, including alcohol and drug (illegal and legal drugs) use
- Behavioral problems
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Sleep/appetite changes
- Neglecting hygiene
- Hard time concentrating and paying attention
- Risk taking behaviors
Suicide is the third leading cause of death among youth between 14 and 24 years of age and the fourth leading cause of death for those aged 10-14. However, suicide can be prevented. It is important to know the warning signs in young people who may be contemplating taking their own lives. Be sure to read the list of signs of suicide risk in adolescents.
If you notice that your teenager has some of these signs, don’t be afraid to ask directly if he or she is depressed or has thoughts of harming him or herself. Then get them to the professional help the help to a counselor or psychotherapist. Most important, keep the lines of communication open between you and your child, encourage them to confide in you, and take their concerns seriously. As parents, we can really make a difference by taking the appropriate actions when our children are hurting. You are better off overreacting than under-reacting.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or in need of immediate help, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline available 24 hours a day to anyone in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.
Reprinted with permission from Psychalive.org
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