Studies have shown that most suicide attempts have been preceded by clear warning signs.
One problem is that we don’t always know what signs we should be watching out for. Part of averting a teen suicide is being involved in your teen’s life and watching for the warning signs.
It is also important to remember that many of the warning signs are also signs of depression.
Parents should always take the warning signs of teen suicide seriously, and to seek help if you think your teen may be suicidal.
Here are some of the signs to look out for:
* Disinterest in favourite extracurricular activities.
* Substance abuse.
* Withdrawing from family and friends.
* Sleep pattern changes.
* Changes in eating habits.
* Neglecting hygiene and other matters of personal appearance.
* Hard time concentrating.
* Drop in school grades.
* Loss of interest in schoolwork.
* Risk taking behaviour.
* Does not respond, as before, to praise.
Not all of these warning signs will be present in cases of possible teen suicide. There are many cases in which a good student commits suicide.
It is important to watch for two or three signs as indications of depression or even suicidal thoughts.
There are also some things a teen might say or do that may indicate that they are contemplating or even planning to end their lives.
Here are some of the indications of a suicide plan:
* Your teen actually says “I want to kill myself” or “I wish I was dead”. These include such phrases as “I want you to know something in case something happens to me” or “I won’t trouble you anymore”.
* Your child begins giving away favourite belongings or promising them to friends and family members.
* Shows signs of extreme cheerfulness after long periods of depression.
* Creates suicide notes.
Understanding that teen suicide warnings are serious calls for help is important.
Many teenagers share their thoughts and feelings in a desperate attempt to be acknowledged.
In many cases they don’t know how to deal with their problems and feelings and are looking for someone to help them.
One of the most important aspects of teen suicide prevention is support. The teen needs to know that you support and love them and that you are willing to help them find hope again.
One of the most effective ways to prevent teen suicide is to recognise the signs and to seek professional help.
Getting help for underlying problems, which almost always includes depression, can lead to more effective teen suicide prevention.
* Information obtained from www.teensuicide.us
