Emotional and Mental Health Factors
In today's world, being a teenager isn't easy. The pressure to fit in, please parents, do well in school and be popular with other teens can overwhelm even the most grounded teen. It is easy to fall into a state of depression, which unfortunately can lead to teen suicide.Teens at Risk for Suicide
Children in their adolescent years are growing from children into adults. This can be a time of conflict between teens and parents. Sometimes it is difficult to distinguish between depression and normal teen "moodiness." Many teens show outward signs of depression, but it is important to remember that many teens have no visible signs of mental illness. Some are obviously angry, sullen and withdrawn, and others are not. Depression can also manifest itself as aggression and rage.
Suicide statistics for American teenagers are surprising. Suicide is the third leading cause of death (behind accidents and homicide) for people ages 15-24. Even more alarming, suicide is the 4th leading cause of death for children ages 10-14. Boys are 4 times more likely to die from suicide because they tend to use more lethal means. Girls make more attempts on their lives and tend to take an overdose of medication. Of those that attempt suicide, between 1 and 10% will succeed.
Statistics indicate that 80% of teens that commit suicide demonstrate some common behaviors or give some type of warning sign. Kids may voice comments like, "you’ll be sorry when I'm gone" or "I can't see any way out." These comments should not be ignored even if they are voiced in a casual or joking manner. Teens at risk for suicide may also have the following behaviors or characteristics.
Statistics indicate that 80% of teens that commit suicide demonstrate some common behaviors or give some type of warning sign. Kids may voice comments like, "you’ll be sorry when I'm gone" or "I can't see any way out." These comments should not be ignored even if they are voiced in a casual or joking manner. Teens at risk for suicide may also have the following behaviors or characteristics.
Other factors that increase the risk of suicide include psychological disorders such as schizophrenia and social anxiety, long term illnesses, a family history of suicide, and exposure to others who have attempted suicide. Giving away personal items or getting affairs in order are also strong indicators of suicidal behavior in teens.
Teens commit suicide because of intense psychological pain. They believe there are no other options. Teens who attempt suicide often have substance abuse problems and honestly cannot see that their situation can get better. Parents, teachers, and friends need to be educated about risk behaviors and ready to seek help for a troubled teen. School counselors, physicians and suicide hot-lines are great sources of assistance and information if you know a teenager that is exhibiting suicidal behavior.
Teens commit suicide because of intense psychological pain. They believe there are no other options. Teens who attempt suicide often have substance abuse problems and honestly cannot see that their situation can get better. Parents, teachers, and friends need to be educated about risk behaviors and ready to seek help for a troubled teen. School counselors, physicians and suicide hot-lines are great sources of assistance and information if you know a teenager that is exhibiting suicidal behavior.
