Warning Signals and Preventive Strategies for Adolescent Suicides
Hey there! Let's talk about a gloomy, yet important topic: teen suicide. The shitty news is that it's a significant issue affecting our youth today—and tragically, it's the second leading cause of death for adolescents in the US. After a decade of decline, rates are on the rise again. It's crucial we keep our eyes open and know the warning signs.
Research shows that mental health issues play a big role in suicidal behavior among teens. Up to 90% of those who take their own life may have had a mental health condition [1]. Stress, whether from school pressure, family issues, or life events, can trigger suicidal ideation. When thoughts of death or suicide persist, it's a clear sign that something's wrong, and immediate help is needed.
So, what should you look out for? Warning signs can include self-harm behaviors, talking about suicide, and extreme sadness. Pay attention to signs of hopelessness or prolonged feelings of sadness, preoccupation with death, withdrawal from loved ones, and changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and school performance. If you suspect your teen is struggling, don't hesitate to talk to them – it could make all the difference.
If your teen talks to you about suicide, take them seriously and reach out for professional help immediately. Suicide prevention strategies include removing means for self-harm, such as sharp objects and medicines, from your home. Talking to your teen, expressing your concern, and seeking help from mental health professionals are essential steps.
Don't feel like you're alone in this. Reach out to organizations and online resources for support. Together, we can create a safer, healthier environment for our young people. Remember, it's okay to talk about suicide. Breaking the silence can help save lives.
If you're having thoughts of hurting yourself or know someone who is, please reach out for help:
- Call or text 988 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, chat online at http://988lifeline.org/, or use these resources:
- Crisis Text Line: Text TALK to 741741
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Stay strong, and keep each other safe.
Sources:
1. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Suicide Statistics - USA2. Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) - Rising Suicide Rates Among Adolescents and Young Adults in the United States, 2000 – 20173. American Journal of Preventive Medicine (AJPM) - Prevalence and Impact of Suicide-Related Thoughts in a National Sample of Youth: Results From the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH)4. American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) - Suicide Risk in Children and Adolescents*5. CDC - Suicide Prevention - An Online Training for Youth – STOP Suicide: Keeping Teens Safe
- Engaging in teen therapy or online therapy can provide effective support for youth experiencing anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder, as they navigate through mental health struggles associated with increased suicide risk.
- Mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, can offer science-based treatment options to help teens cope with these challenges, preventing potential suicide attempts.
- By prioritizing mental health and wellness in health-and-wellness discussions, we can help destigmatize mental illness and encourage more adolescents to seek help when needed.
- Incorporating suicide prevention strategies, like online training courses, such as STOP Suicide: Keeping Teens Safe, into schools and communities can empower youth and adults to recognize the warning signs of suicide and respond accordingly.
- Utilizing resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, or the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline ensures access to immediate assistance for those in need, potentially saving lives.
