Teen Talk: Suicide Prevention

Shannon Bussnick, LSW 

Although a difficult and quite often heart-wrenching topic to discuss, teen suicide continues to be a prevalent issue in today’s society with rates steadily increasing throughout many parts of the United States. In 2019, PBS quoted a study by the Journal of the American Medical Association that found: “The rate of U.S. adolescents and young adults dying of suicide has reached its highest level in nearly two decades” (Frazee & Morales, 2019). For this reason, it’s obligatory we spread awareness about teen suicide while increasing preventative measures to save lives. Whether you’re a teen that is experiencing suicidal thoughts and not sure where to turn; a parent of a teen who is displaying worrisome behaviors or showing warning signs of suicide; or if you know of someone in your life who is currently struggling with their mental health: there is hope.

Image Credit @dmey503

Talking About Suicide Prevention

By discussing topics of mental health and teen suicide openly, free of any assumptions and/or judgments, adolescents may be more likely to seek support from friends, family, other trusted adults (e.g., teachers, counselors, coaches) and the mental health services available to them. With increased awareness and educational efforts, collectively we will have a better understanding of what signs and symptoms to look for when it comes to helping someone in need. Equally important, we must also understand the implications of a delayed response in reaching out to a teen in trouble or in linking a young person to the appropriate resources.

Per the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, “Suicide is the second leading cause of death for children, adolescents, and young adults age 15-to-24-year-olds.” (Aacap, 2018). Oftentimes, having an existing mental health condition like depression, or when combined with substance use, abuse, and/or dependency, may account for a level of susceptibility for suicidal ideation among teenagers—especially when left untreated. However, it’s important to recognize that suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are treatable. Having a mental health diagnosis does not directly imply that a teen will necessarily experience suicidal thoughts, either. 

Once a teen is connected to the appropriate resources, typically under the care of a mental health professional, symptoms may decrease and/or stabilize. The utilization of a comprehensive treatment plan will be more likely to have a positive impact for a teen than say a one-size-fits-all approach. Try to remember that there isn’t a distinct timeframe given for alleviating symptoms of depression and suicidal ideation, everyone responds to treatment at a different pace.

Teen Risk Factors

When it comes to discussing early detection and prevention of teen suicide, there are various risk factors to look at. However, the below risk factors do not determine whether a teen will or will not experience suicidal ideation. Identifying risk factors early on can be crucial for ensuring the overall safety and well-being of another.  

  • Family history of mental health conditions and/or suicide attempts.

  • Exposure to forms of violence and/or abuse (domestic violence, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse). 

  • Behavioral problems and/or impulsivity at home, school, or with peers.

  • Feelings of sadness, isolation, rejection, and/or hopelessness.

  • Access to weapons and/or firearms

(Aacap, 2018).

Teen Warning Signs

When discussing early detection and prevention of teen suicide, there are warning signs to look for as well. Once again, identifying warning signs early on can be crucial. 

  • Making suicidal statements.

  • Withdrawn behavior (avoiding family, friends, or usual activities). 

  • Somatic complaints (stomach upset, headaches, body aches). 

  • Changes in overall mood, appetite, and sleep patterns.

  • Exhibiting a preoccupation with death.

  • Giving away items and possessions that hold importance

(Aacap, 2018).

Help is Available 

If you’re a teenager engaging in self-harm or experiencing suicidal ideation please know that there’s help available for you today. If you notice changes pertaining to your mental health, find someone you feel comfortable talking to: a parent, teacher, friend, mental health professional, or an emergency hotline. Parents: please don’t be afraid to ask your teen how they are feeling; a quick daily check-in may be helpful for both teens and their parents. Sometimes, your teen may be waiting for you to open the door and just listen. For anyone reading, please remember that you’re not alone. You are worthy of life, love, and happiness. Help is available for you today.

 

Resources

*Remember: If you or someone close to you is in crisis or may be in danger please do not hesitate to reach out for help. 

  • Emergency: Call 911 immediately

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

  • National Hopeline Network: 1-800-SUICIDE (800-784-2433)

  • Crisis Text Line: Text “DESERVE” to 741-741

  • Self-Harm Hotline: 1-800-DONTCUT (1-800-366-8288)

  • American Association of Poison Control Centers: 1-800-222-1222

  • National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependency Hope Line: 1-800-622-2255

  • GLBT Hotline: 1-888-843-4564

  • National Crisis Line – Anorexia and Bulimia: 1-800-233-4357

 

References

Frazee, G., & Morales, P. G. (2019, June 18). Suicide among teens and young adults reaches highest level since 2000. PBS. https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/suicide-among-teens-and-young-adults-reaches-highest-level-since-2000. 

Aacap. (2018, June). Suicide in Children and Teens. https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Teen-Suicide-010.aspx.

Depression, Teens, Suicide, Mental Health InsightsJeff MoweryComment