Teen Suicide

They may suffer from depression — it makes everything seem overwhelming. When you are depressed, you may feel a sense of helplessness and hopelessness from one or a combination of reasons:

• family problems
• a significant loss — maybe from health , a loss of respect, the loss of a love relationship
• pressure to succeed
• poor self-esteem
• For some teens, it cam be an overreaction to the normal challenges of growing up. Recent brain studies show that adolescents experience things twice as intensely as a mature adult.

Suicide does not happen out of the blue.  What are the signs that a young person might be thinking about committing suicide?

Unfortunately, it CAN happen out of the blue as an impulsive gesture with little warning. But not often. Don’t look for just one sign. Usually it’s a gradual process that becomes more obvious when several signs occur:

• The person might act depressed — loses interest in having fun, withdraws from family and friends.
• He or she might have a preoccupation with thoughts of death, through music, art, clothing.
• Watch for changes in school performance and activities.
• He may begin to give away valuable possessions.
• Also if a depressed person suddenly seems happy, it could mean that he or she has made a decision to solve the problems through suicide. Call for help immediately if you see this in combination with the other signs.

How do we help if we suspect that a depressed teenager might be thinking about suicide?

• Don’t sidestep the issue.
• Don’t ignore any sign—watch closely and ask for information or help as you observe.
• Don’t keep secrets about it.
• Don’t feel like you can handle it alone—the person definitely needs a professional to handle suicidal thoughts.

What can parents do to keep their children’s mental health strong enough to prevent thoughts of suicide?

Be tuned into the personality of each child--be interested in your child’s life. Maintain your emotional connection — it’s the best defense against suicidal impulses.   Encourage healthy emotional expression —fears, anger, confusion—it helps develop the emotional connection between you and your child.   Be available to talk anytime about anything. Initiate conversations about difficult topics before they become serious.   Have a close relationship with your child’s school —usually your child’s friends will take their suspicions to the school counselor before they will come to you.

For more information call 553-3000 or toll-free (877) 553-3001 or email info@heartlandfamilyservice.org