Suicide

Suicide

According to the Mayo Clinic:
“Most teens who attempt or commit suicide have a mental health condition or substance abuse problem. As a result, they have trouble coping with the stress of being a teen, such as dealing with rejection, failure, breakups and family turmoil. They might also be unable to see that they can turn their lives around — and that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

Warning signs of teen suicide might include:

  • * Talking about or hinting at suicide — for example, making statements such as “I’m going to kill myself,” or “I won’t be a problem for you much longer”
  • * Talking about or writing about death
  • * Increased use of alcohol or drugs
  • * Feeling purposeless or hopeless
  • * Withdrawing from social contact
  • * Mood swings
  • * Changing normal routine, including eating or sleeping patterns
  • * Acting recklessly or aggressively
  • * Giving away belongings or getting affairs in order when there is no other logical explanation for why this is being done
  • * Developing personality changes or being severely anxious or agitated
  • * Unexplained cuts or burns caused by self-injury

If you think your teen is in immediate danger, take him or her to the emergency room or call 911, your local emergency number or a suicide hot line number — such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255) or dial 988.

Remember, teen suicide can be prevented. If you’re worried about your teen, talk to him or her and seek help right away.”