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Mental Health

2013-05-29 09:14:05

Teen suicide is preventable

Q-My daughter recently lost a classmate to suicide. Even though she wasn’t a best friend to this person, they did share two classes together. My daughter talks about not recognizing that the student was in trouble. What should classmates and parents be looking for as possible threats of teen suicide?

A-Suicides among young people continue to be a serious problem. Each year in the United States, thousands of teenagers die by suicide. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for 15 to 24 year olds, and the sixth leading cause of death for 5 to 14 year olds. According to experts, causes of suicidal distress can be caused by psychological, environmental and social factors. Mental illness is the leading risk factor for suicide. According to a 2004 report distributed by the National Institute of Mental Health, research shows that risk factors for suicide include depression and other mental disorders, and substance use disorders. More than 90 percent of people who die by suicide have these risk factors. Suicide risk factors vary with age, gender, ethnic group, family dynamics and stressful life events. The risk for teen suicide frequently occurs in combination with external circumstances that seem to overwhelm at-risk teens that are unable to cope with the challenges of adolescence. Examples of stressors are disciplinary problems, interpersonal losses, break ups with girlfriends or boyfriends, family violence, sexual orientation confusion, physical and sexual abuse, and being the victim of bullying. Adolescents who complete suicide often talk about it or give warning signs prior to the act. It is important to take the warning signs of teen suicide seriously and to seek help immediately if you think that a teenager might be suicidal. Intervention efforts for at-risk youth can put them in contact with mental health services that can save their lives. Here are some of the warning signs to look for: • Disinterest in favorite extracurricular activities • Substance abuse, including alcohol and drugs (illegal and legal) • Behavioral problems • Withdrawing from family and friends • Sleep changes and changes in eating habits • Hygiene changes and other matters of personal appearance • Emotional distress expressed by physical complaints (aches, fatigue, migraines) • Hard time concentrating and paying attention • Loss of interest in schoolwork or declining grades in school • Risk taking behaviors • Complains more frequently of boredom • Does not respond as before to praise If you are concerned about an adolescent who might be exhibiting the risk factors and warning signs, the Sedgwick County Suicide Prevention Hotline and Mental Health Emergency Services provides telephone and walk-in services 24 hours per day, 7 days a week by medical and mental health professionals. Call 316-660-7500. Emphasis is placed on serving individuals experiencing a mental health crisis, particularly those at risk for suicide.