The concept of teen suicide is a painful and fearful topic for many individuals. While the preferred reaction is to want to not think about it or not speak about it, this is exactly what needs to happen. Increasing public knowledge and acceptance of speaking about suicidality helps individuals who are contemplating it know that there are safe places that they can reach out to for help.
In the latest update published in May 2023, the suicide rate doubled for adolescent attempted suicides, and unfortunately, suicide was also a leading cause of teen death. The suicide rate in the country has increased across all sexes, races, and ethnicities over the past two decades.
As parents, it is crucial to be aware of the factors that contribute to suicide attempts and ideations to support and protect our confused and vulnerable teens. Key Healthcare, the US’s trusted rehab center for teens, strives to equip you, as parents, with the knowledge necessary to recognise the signs of teen suicide attempts, take an early intervention, and safeguard the well-being of our children.
Call our Helpline number if you feel that you require immediate support. Always remember that help is available.
Why Teens May Attempt Suicide
While the reasons behind teen suicide attempts are multifaceted, several common factors often emerge. Mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, play a significant role. Bullying, academic pressure, family conflicts, and social isolation also contribute to the vulnerability of teenagers. These factors can create a toxic environment where young individuals feel overwhelmed, desperate, and trapped, leading to thoughts of self-harm and suicide.
Mental Health Conditions
Mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. can arise from genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. The impact of these conditions can increase levels of distress and decrease your teen’s ability to manage their emotions. External factors can exacerbate the feelings of the mental health condition. External factors can be stress, adversity, previous suicide attempts, access to lethal means, lack of social support, and cultural influences, which can contribute to the decision to turn to suicide as a means to end mental health suffering.
Social Pressure and Isolation
Social pressure and isolation can affect teen mental health. It’s tough for adolescents to feel pressured to fit in, meet constant expectations, or compare themselves to others. Sometimes, they feel left out, bullied, or like they don’t have anyone to lean on. It’s tough during the teenage years when they are figuring out who they are and seeking acceptance. All these pressures can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and even depression. When these feelings can be overwhelming, and your teen feels that they cannot reach out for help, they may experience suicidal ideation or thoughts about suicide as a coping strategy.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse can occur at any age, including within adolescence. Teens may start experimenting with drugs or alcohol due to various reasons. Sometimes, it’s the pressure from friends or wanting to fit in. Other times, they might be curious about the effects or trying to cope with the stress and emotions they’re dealing with. The effects of substance abuse can lead to dangerous behaviors and possible suicidal ideation and attempts.
Family Conflicts and Trauma
Family conflicts, including divorce, domestic violence, and emotional neglect, can significantly impact a teenager’s mental health. These traumatic experiences can create feelings of instability, insecurity, and hopelessness, leading to a higher risk of suicidal ideation and attempts.
Access to Means
Easy access to lethal means, such as guns or prescription medication, increases the risk of complete suicide. Parents and caregivers must secure potentially dangerous items and provide a safe environment for teenagers. If you are concerned that your teen may be thinking about self-harm or suicide, it will be helpful to ensure that they do not have easy access to means to harm themselves. This can also be a point where you can approach your teen with your concerns.
Emotional Turmoil
Emotional turmoil refers to intense sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness that becomes overwhelming. It involves difficulty coping with stressors or traumatic events and believing that the pain will never subside and that one burdens others. It creates a heavy, never-ending emotional burden that can be incredibly challenging. These heavy emotions may lead a teen to turn to suicidal ideation and attempts as a way to end this pain.
Common Ways Teens May Attempt Suicide
In 2021, suicide statistics revealed that firearms were the leading method chosen for suicide, accounting for over half (54.64%) of all suicide deaths. The following most prevalent methods were suffocation, including hangings (25.80%), and poisoning, which included drug overdoses (11.56%). It is important to be aware of these facts and understand the potential risks associated with these different methods to help prevent such tragedies.
If you are concerned about your teen you may want to be vigilant for these possible signs. If you are worried that your teen feels suicidal, speak to them and help them access professional support.
If your teen is using substances as a means of ending their life, you might notice them being secretive regarding medication, complaining of headaches or body aches to gain access to medication, etc. They may also decide to use toxic substances such as rat poison or other chemicals, these should be monitored.
If your teen is engaging or hoping to use strangulation or hanging as their means of suicide you may notice unusual markings on their necks or the presence of ropes.
If your teen is considering jumping from a height, they may speak about jumping or falling from heights and wonder at the damage that would entail.
If your teen is considering drowning as a means of suicide, you may notice a fascination with water and submerging themselves in water.
If your teen is thinking of using a vehicle you might notice reckless driving or intentional causation of accidents.
It is important to remember that these are not the only signs you may observe, as often behaviors and wishes to complete suicide are kept secret. Having open communication with your teen about their emotions and experiences may help you gain more insight into their feelings.
Seeking out professional support may be a good idea, as there is evidence gathered from a study conducted in 2017 across eight emergency departments in seven states that found that patients who were screened and received evidence-based care experienced 30% fewer suicide attempts than those who were not screened. In response to the rising suicide rate among youth, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended universal screening for all young people aged 12 and older.
Vulnerable Moments When Teens Are At Higher Risk of Suicide Attempts
As parents, it is crucial to be vigilant and attuned to our teenagers’ emotional well-being. Adolescence can be turbulent, and there may be moments when our teens contemplate suicide. Recognizing the warning signs and their significance can help us provide the support and intervention they need.
Emotional Distress
Pay close attention to intense and prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness in your teen. These emotions can become overwhelming and may indicate a more profound struggle. Be open to listening and empathizing with their feelings, creating a safe space for them to express themselves without judgment.
Changes in Behavior
Be mindful of any drastic changes in your teen’s behavior, such as withdrawal from activities or social interactions they once enjoyed. A sudden loss of interest in hobbies, sports, or spending time with friends could be a red flag. Take notice if they isolate themselves frequently or decline academic performance.
Verbal Cues
Listen carefully to what your teen says, as they may drop subtle hints or express their distress indirectly. Statements like “I can’t handle this anymore,” “I feel like a burden,” or “I wish I weren’t here” should never be taken lightly. These words may reveal their internal struggles, and it’s crucial to validate their feelings and seek professional help if needed.
Risky Behaviors
Watch out for teens engaging in risky behaviors or self-destructive actions. This can include substance abuse, reckless driving, promiscuity, or extreme acts of rebellion. These actions might indicate their emotional turmoil and an attempt to cope with their pain.
Dramatic Mood Swings
Be aware of sudden and extreme mood swings in your teen. They may exhibit heightened irritability, anger, or aggression, followed by periods of withdrawal or apathy. These fluctuations could be signs of underlying emotional distress that require your attention.
Social Isolation
Take note if your teen starts distancing themselves from friends and family or withdraws from social activities or called teenage isolation. They may avoid social interactions, parties, or gatherings they previously enjoyed. Isolation can intensify their feelings of loneliness and contribute to their vulnerability.
Changes in Appearance
Pay attention to any significant changes in your teen’s appearance, such as neglecting personal hygiene or a sudden loss or gain of weight. These changes may indicate a lack of self-care and a decline in their overall well-being.
Late-Night Isolation
During the night, when parents may be unaware of their teen’s emotional state, suicidal thoughts can become more intense. Teens may feel less inhibited to act on their thoughts in the silence and solitude of the night.
Online Environments
Social media platforms, online forums, and chat rooms can be breeding grounds for negative influences and toxic conversations that foster suicidal ideation. Cyberbullying and exposure to self-harm content can further exacerbate feelings of hopelessness.
Crisis Points
High-stress situations such as exams, relationship breakdowns, or significant disappointments can lead to an acute crisis where suicidal thoughts intensify.
It’s essential to be vigilant during these moments and seek immediate professional help if necessary.
How Parents Can Prevent Teen Suicide Attempts
Here are some user-friendly tips and resources to help parents assess their teen’s mental well-being and support them in preventing and addressing suicide attempts.
Start with Open Communication: Talk openly and non-judgmentally with your teen about their feelings, concerns, and any signs of distress they may be experiencing. Let them know you’re there to listen and support them.
Look for Warning Signs: Be aware of warning signs that may indicate your teen is struggling, such as sudden changes in behavior, withdrawal from activities or friends, excessive sadness or irritability, changes in sleep or appetite, or talking about feeling hopeless or worthless.
Teen Mental Health Check-ins: Regularly check in with your teen about their mental health and well-being. Ask how they’re feeling and if they need someone to talk to. Let them know it’s okay to ask for help when struggling.
Utilize Mental Health Resources: Familiarize yourself with local mental health resources, such as school counselors, community clinics, or helplines. These resources can provide support and guidance tailored to your area.
Encourage Peer Support: Encourage your teen to connect with supportive friends or participate in peer support programs at school or in the community. Having a network of understanding peers can make a big difference.
Learn about Universal Screening: Universal screening programs aim to identify students at risk of mental health issues. Stay informed about these programs and participate in any assessments or follow-up actions recommended for your teen.
Promote Healthy Coping Strategies: Help your teen develop healthy coping strategies, such as engaging in physical activities, practicing relaxation techniques, writing in a journal, or pursuing hobbies they enjoy. Encourage them to express their feelings in constructive ways.
Stay Informed about New Approaches: Stay updated on the latest research, policies, behavioral therapies for teens, and programs related to teen mental health. Attend workshops, webinars, or parent education sessions to learn about new tools and techniques for supporting your teen.
Conclusion
By being proactive and attentive, you can play a vital role in helping your teen navigate these vulnerable moments and find the support they require to overcome their challenges.
Remember, there is always hope; with appropriate support, teens can overcome challenges and thrive. If you suspect your child may be experiencing suicidal ideation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our helpline number for professional help.
