Suicidal behavior in teens can lead to tragic consequences. There
are several ways to help prevent teen suicide, but most importantly we must
recognize the issues that may trigger feelings of teen depression leading to
suicidal thoughts and feelings.
Teen suicide prevention requires diligence on the part of guardians, as well
as a willingness to seek professional help when it is needed.
The following resources are available to parents/guardians and friends of
teens who have suicidal behavior:
Suicide
Risk Factors
Risk factors are often confused with warning signs of suicide,
and frequently suicide prevention materials mix the two into lists of “what to
watch out for.” It is important to note, however, that factors identified as
increasing risk are not factors that cause or predict a suicide attempt. Risk
factors are characteristics that make it more likely that an individual will
consider, attempt, or die by suicide. Protective factors are characteristics
that make it less likely that individuals will consider, attempt, or die by
suicide.
Risk Factors for Suicide
o Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia,
anxiety disorders and certain personality disorders
o Alcohol and other substance use disorders
o Hopelessness
o Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
o History of trauma or abuse
o Major physical illnesses
o Previous suicide attempt
o Family history of suicide
o Job or financial loss
o Loss of relationship
o Easy access to lethal means
o Local clusters of suicide
o Lack of social support and sense of isolation
o Stigma associated with asking for help
o Lack of health care, especially mental health and substance
abuse treatment
o Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide
is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
o Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via
the media and Internet)
Protective Factors for
Suicide
o Effective clinical care for mental, physical and substance use
disorders
o Easy access to a variety of clinical interventions
o Restricted access to highly lethal means of suicide
o Strong connections to family and community support
o Support through ongoing medical and mental health care
relationships
o Skills in problem solving, conflict resolution and handling
problems in a non-violent way
o Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide and
support self-preservation
(This was adapted from "Understanding
Risk and Protective Factors for Suicide” and “Risk and protective factors for
suicide" by the Suicide
Prevention Resource Center.)
Suicide
Warning Signs
The
following signs may mean someone is at risk for suicide. The risk of suicide is
greater if a behavior is new or has increased and if it seems related to a painful
event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these signs,
seek help as soon as possible by calling the Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK - FREE 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
o Talking about
wanting to die or to kill themselves.
o Looking for a way
to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a gun
o Talking about
feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
o Talking about
feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
o Talking about
being a burden to others.
o Increasing the
use of alcohol or drugs.
o Acting anxious or
agitated; behaving recklessly.
o Sleeping too
little or too much.
o Withdrawing or
isolating themselves.
o Showing rage or
talking about seeking revenge.
o Displaying
extreme mood swings.