Adolescence is a time of significant emotional and cognitive change. Many adolescents are unable to cope with the challenges of this developmental period and may attempt suicide as a way out.
When kids talk about suicide, it should be taken seriously. Likewise, when they start to withdraw from family and friends or exhibit risk-taking behavior it could be a warning sign.
Depression
Depression is one of the leading causes of suicide in youths. It can lead to feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness and an intense desire to die. It can also cause impulsive behavior and a loss of control over emotions and actions. It can be exacerbated by alcohol and other drugs. Depression and a drug or alcohol addiction can make it very difficult for young people to cope with problems in their daily lives.
Depression and other mood disorders can be triggered by life events such as divorce, breakups, death of a loved one or an illness that is terminal. They can also be caused by the stresses of academic pressure, excessive alcohol use, frequent changes in residence and dysfunctional family patterns.
Talk therapy and the right medications are vital in treating depression. It is best if your teen’s doctor creates an integrated treatment plan with medication and therapy. This may include setting up support plans with teachers and coaches, if applicable.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse occurs when a person takes alcohol, illegal drugs or prescription medicine too often, in large amounts or for unintended uses. Drug abuse can lead to serious health and social problems.
Alcohol and drugs affect your brain chemistry. They can interfere with your ability to think clearly, learn and perform daily tasks. They can also cause feelings of apathy or depression.
People who have both mental illness and substance abuse are at higher risk for suicide. Many youths with mental illnesses use substances to self medicate and ease their symptoms. This can create a vicious cycle that leads to further problems.
The use of illicit drugs among adolescents has been increasing in recent years. Some of these substances, such as ecstasy and LSD, can cause hallucinations. Youths with a history of substance abuse are at risk for psychological, physical and social problems, including drug-related accidents and homicide. They may have difficulty finding employment and may miss out on important relationships.
Family Issues
Many health care professionals (HCPs) misperceive suicidal talk and behavior as a cry for attention or “just teenage drama.” Threats of suicide should always be taken seriously.
Family factors, including perceived lack of family support and a disturbed home environment, play an important role in suicide attempts. For example, one of the study participants reported that her mother was always critical and told her she was crazy, causing sadness, impulsive anger, and eventually suicidal thoughts. (Table 2).
HCPs can help to prevent youth suicide by screening for suicide in a developmentally appropriate manner, counseling families on safe storage of lethal objects, assessing access to lethal means during all health supervision visits, and referring for an acute evaluation by a mental health specialist when necessary. Additionally, they should offer psychoeducation to both the youth and their guardian. They can also encourage the use of available community resources and treatment, including suicide prevention programs, and offer psychotherapy for depression if it is present.
Mental Health Issues
Depression and suicidal feelings are symptoms of mental health issues that may be treated with medication, psychotherapy or other treatments. If a teen is considering suicide, they should contact a therapist or counselor right away. There are also toll-free lines that can be called for help or guidance.
Historically disadvantaged communities that have faced discrimination, poverty and other social stressors experience higher rates of suicide than the general population. This includes American Indian and Alaska Native youths who are at greater risk of suicide because of generational trauma, family disconnection and barriers to care.
Black teens, for example, may be traumatized by repeated videos of the police shootings of their peers. But their trauma is not always included in assessments of suicide risk, said Molock. She is leading research on how to build resilience and community connectedness in young Black people. She and other researchers are also working on interventions that can help reduce suicide in these populations.