Warning Signs of Teen Suicide

Warning signs of Teen Suicide and What to look for

It is extremely important that you take all threats of suicide seriously and seek immediate treatment for your adolescent or child. Almost 1 in 4 teenagers considers suicide. It is uncommon for younger children to attempt suicide unless they are victims of abuse. If you are an adolescent or child and have these feelings, talk with your parent, an adult friend, or your doctor right away to get some help.

Some common warning signs for suicide

Making suicidal statements.
Preoccupation with death in conversation, writing, or drawing.
Giving away belongings.
Withdrawal from friends and family.
Possession or purchase of a weapon, pills, or other means of inflicting self-harm.
Aggressive or hostile behavior.

Other warning signs

Problems at school, such as falling grades, disruptive behavior, or frequent absences.
Drug or alcohol use problems.
Running away from home.
Risk-taking behavior, such as reckless driving or being sexually promiscuous.
Neglect of personal appearance.
A change in personality (such as from upbeat to quiet).

Certain situations that may trigger a teen or child with depression to think about suicide

A friend, peer, family member, or hero (such as a sports figure or musician) recently attempted or committed suicide.
Unrealistic, high expectations to perform from a parent.
Having depression or another mental health condition, such as bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness) or schizophrenia.
Having a parent with depression or substance abuse problems.
Loss of a parent or close family member through death or divorce.
Disruptive or abusive family life.
Uncertainty surrounding sexual orientation (such as bisexuality or homosexuality).
History of sexual abuse.

Signs of depression, which can lead to suicidal behavior

Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed.
Changes in eating and sleeping habits.
Difficulty thinking and concentrating.
Complaints of continued boredom.
Complaints of headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue with no actual physical problems.
Expressions of guilt; not allowing anyone to give him or her praise or rewards.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an advisory to patients, families, and health care providers to closely monitor children and adults taking antidepressants for signs of suicide. This is especially important at the beginning of treatment or when doses are changed.

The FDA also advises that anyone with depression be observed for increases in anxiety, panic attacks, agitation, irritability, insomnia, impulsivity, hostility, and mania. It is most important to watch for these behaviors in children, who may be less able to control their impulsivity as much as adults and therefore may be at greater risk for suicidal impulses. The FDA has not recommended that people stop using antidepressants, but simply to monitor those taking the medications and, if concerns arise, to contact a health professional.

If you feel your teen is going to commit suicide, or is having suicidal thoughts, there are several phone numbers that you can call for help. If one or more of the above signs occurs, parents need to talk to their child about their concerns and seek professional help when the concerns persist. With support from family and professional treatment, children and teenagers who are suicidal can heal and return to a more healthy path of development.

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