Teenage Suicide: Warnings Signs & What to Do
From 2007 to 2018, suicide rates increased by 60% in ages 10-24 according to the CDC.
It can come as a shock to parents that their children are contemplating suicide. Teenagers are very good at hiding their struggles and thoughts. While this list below is by no means a complete list, below are some warning signs that parents need to know; as well how to help your child through their pain. ↓
Warning Signs
Isolating Behavior
Self-Harm (this does not always mean they are suicidal)
Withdrawal from hobbies or things they once enjoyed
Substance Abuse
Comments about suicide in conversation or text
Expressions of shame, hopelessness, meaninglessness
Giving away possessions
Change in sleeping or eating
Making a plan or googling ways to commit suicide
Expressing that they are a burden to others
Extreme mood swings
Talking about being in pain and wanting the pain to stop
What to do:
Talk to your teenager about what you are seeing and the signs that you are noticing.
Ask if they have suicidal thoughts. Seek to understand and do your best to stay calm if they do reveal these thoughts to you. They need to feel safe talking to you.
Find out:
Do they have a plan?
Have they started implementing this plan?
Do they have immediate access to a means of suicide?
If your child is in immediate risk take them to the emergency room or call 911
If not in immediate danger, but they express they do have suicidal thoughts then find a professional counselor or a trusted adult that can build a relationship with your teenager.
Remind them that they are not alone and that they are greatly loved. They will not always feel this way and that you want to fully understand them.
Limit social media usage
Do not let them isolate themselves
Get them moving and outside
Continue to have productive and healthy conversations surrounding suicide.
Please know that if your child has any of these signs, it does not necessarily mean they are suicidal. Also, if your child or loved one does not want you to find out what they are thinking or feeling then they will find a way to keep their problems hidden from you. Even if you notice the signs and take actions then there are no guarantees that you will be able to prevent suicide. However, knowing the signs and taking action can save someone’s life.