Whether it’s an emotional outburst or dangerous behaviors, teens in crisis need help. It’s important to notice changes in their routines and be aware of warning signs.
Just as flight attendants instruct passengers to put on their own oxygen masks first, it’s essential for parents to care for themselves when dealing with a teen in crisis.
Self-harm
Many people who self-harm will try to keep it a secret. However, some signs of it can be obvious. These may include cuts, burns or attempts at overdose. It can also be less apparent, such as lowered grades in school or not eating.
Self-harm is a way of dealing with intensely difficult emotions or overwhelming situations. It is often done in response to feelings of emptiness or numbness. It can take different forms, including cutting, burning or non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). It is most common among teenagers and young adults.
If someone tells you that they are self-harming, listen carefully and do not judge them. Reassure them that it is normal to hurt yourself and that treatment can help them overcome this behaviour. Encourage them to talk to their GP or a counsellor and offer to go with them. Gently encourage them to seek help and remind them that the longer they continue this behaviour, the harder it will be to break the pattern.
Suicidal thoughts
Suicide is a serious and complicated issue, and anyone who expresses thoughts or actions of this nature should be taken seriously. Even if a youth doesn’t intend to kill themselves, their suicidal feelings and actions can have lasting consequences for those around them. Those who threaten suicide or try to hurt themselves should get a medical checkup to rule out any life-threatening health issues and receive treatment for an underlying mental health condition or substance abuse issue that may be contributing to their feelings of depression and hopelessness.
Teens and young adults who have suicidal thoughts or make a suicide attempt should also receive family therapy and counseling to learn how to cope with their feelings of hopelessness and depression, improve their relationships with their loved ones and prevent future episodes. They may also be prescribed medication if the doctor believes that the underlying cause of their depression is causing their suicidal thoughts and behavior.
Anger issues
Anger is a natural and healthy emotion, but when it gets out of control, it can become a serious problem. If someone feels that their anger is out of control, or they are constantly angry with others or themselves, this can cause them a lot of distress and lead to many negative consequences, both in their personal life and work life.
An angry teen may be more likely to drink or take drugs to cope with their emotions. This is a dangerous situation, and it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible.
A GP can offer advice on how to manage anger, or they can refer the person to another service for support. Talking therapies are often helpful, and they can teach people healthier ways to manage their anger. These courses are often provided over a few weeks or months. Some also provide group work with other people who have the same issues.
Depression
Depression is one of the most common mental health issues among youth in crisis. Depression can lead to a variety of behaviors, including self-harm and suicidal thoughts. In addition, depression can also lead to substance abuse and other comorbid conditions.
Many communities have experienced significant cuts in services for children and youth. This includes park funding, opportunities to connect with other people and playing sports. As a result, youth are increasingly unable to rely on community resources in times of crisis.
Some states are working to address this crisis by implementing systems that can provide more timely access to care. These systems include crisis receiving and stabilization facilities that are staffed with trained clinicians. These facilities can also help coordinate post-discharge planning and connection to intensive wraparound services. In addition, some states are seeking input from families and youth with lived experience to ensure that crisis settings are informed by the needs of these populations.