Youth suicide is a topic lacking in common conversation. It seems as if this topic only comes up after a tragedy occurs and hits the news (and too close to home). There are a lot of risk factors that can lead to teen suicide such as bullying, family problems, eating disorders and a number of other things; however, substance abuse is also a very common cause for teenage suicide. It is important for parents to recognize the warning signs, know when their children are suffering and be able to prevent these types of tragedies if at all possible.
The Statistics
· According to data released by the CDC, suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 10-24.
· More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than from cancer, influenza, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke and pneumonia combined.
· There are 5,400 suicide attempts each day by children and young adults in grades 7-12.
· Studies have shown that 4 out of 5 youth suicide attempts were preceded by clear warning signs.
The Warning Signs
It is important for parents to know the warning signs and to be able to recognize abnormal behavioral patterns that could possibly lead to suicide attempts. Some of these warning signs could include, but are not limited to –
· Comments about feeling hopeless, helpless or worthless
· Talking about suicide during casual conversation
· Extreme shifts in behavior
· Sudden lack of interest in normal activities and hobbies
· Withdrawal from interaction with family and/or friends
If any of these symptoms are accompanied by suspicions or knowledge of alcohol or drug abuse, problems at home (divorce,etc), issues with bullying, or any other problems that your child may be facing, it is important to seek help and talk to your child about these problems. According to The Jason Foundation, alcohol and drug use are associated with 50-67% of suicides.
What Can You Do to Help?
Suspecting that your child could be at risk of attempting suicide is a very scary feeling. It is important as parents to be prepared in knowing how to deal with situations like this when they arise. Here are some tips on how to handle the situation if you feel that your child is at risk.
· Remain calm and avoid reacting erratically
· Ask your child directly if he/she is having suicidal thoughts
· Listen and allow your child to speak freely of their feelings without interruption or judgment
· Reassure your child of your unconditional love and support
· If your child has admitted to having suicidal thoughts – do not leave them alone
· Seek professional help immediately
· Reassure your child that these feelings of pain and suffering will not last forever
· Notify your child’s school administrator of the problem and request any help that they can offer
Using Your Child’s School as a Resource
Your child’s school can serve as one of the most useful resources in suicide prevention, being that your child spends the majority of his or her time there. Here are some resources that your child’s school can provide –
· Access to tests that can measure your child’s risk-level for suicide
· Parent notification of any suspicious behaviors that are believed to be warnings signs of suicidal behavior
· Provide referrals for outside professional help that your child may need if he or she is found to be at risk of suicide
· Provide in-school counseling to any child who is suffering from depression, low self-esteem, or any other problems that commonly lead to suicide
The mission of the Walton County Prevention Coalition is to help to prevent substance abuse in our youth by developing an anti-drug coalition. Suicide prevention is a topic that does not receive an adequate amount of attention, and substance abuse is one of the most common stepping stones to suicidal behavior in our youth. The Walton County Prevention Coalition urges parents to stay educated on recognizing the signs of suicidal behavior in teenagers.