Teenage Suicide
Helpful Tips for Prevention of Teen Suicide
Many teens will experience times of rejection and disappointment that can lead to periods of sadness and anxiety. However, some teens may experience more extreme reactions; some that can leave them with a feeling of doom. When all hope is lost, teens can feel that suicide is the only solution.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, “scientific evidence has shown that almost all people who take their own lives have a diagnosable mental or substance abuse disorder, and the majority have more than one disorder.” Suicidal feelings are treatable, so understanding the symptoms to look for in this disorder is so important.
Behavioral Indicators
The National Institute of Mental Health believes that behavioral indicators can help parents, caregivers, and friends recognize suicidal tendencies in teens. If these symptoms are evident, please seek help.
- Personality changes that seem extreme
- Loss of interest in pleasurable activities
- Extreme appetite changes
- Sleeping difficulties, too much or too little
- Loss of energy and unusual fatigue
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Personal appearance or hygiene is neglected
- Sadness, irritability, or indifference
- Trouble concentrating
- Extreme anxiety or panic attacks
- Aggressive, destructive, or defiant behavior
- Not doing well in school
- Hallucinations or beliefs that are unnatural
Never remain silent if one feels a teen is contemplating suicide. It is preventable, but one must act quickly.
Talk With Teens
Always work on close, positive relationship with teens. Don’t be afraid to say the word “suicide” if you think it may lead to a discussion. This may help a teen think someone has heard his cries for help. Be a good listener. Support and early intervention can be effective in this matter. Reassure the teen that he is cared about and no matter how troublesome his problems may seem; people are willing to help solve the issues. Seek professional help and ask a doctor to help. A variety of outpatient and hospital-based treatment programs are available.
If suicide is suspected, it is wise to remove potential weapons from the home, including guns, prescription pills, sharp utensils, and ropes until matters have been resolved.
Help is Available
Make sure teens are aware of these important phone numbers if they need help and if a teen is in a serious crisis, take him directly to the nearest emergency room.
There is a national telephone number to the suicide crisis centers: 1-800-SUICIDE.
Another crisis hotline is the Covenant House nine-line: 1-800-999-9999
With help, young adults can be guided toward creating problem-solving skills that will help them arrive at reasonable solutions. Suicidal problems can be conquered.
Teenagers
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