Every year families are torn apart by the suicide of a teenager. The death is devastating and the family often wonders if they could have done something to stop them. Could recognizing warning signs of suicidal teenagers have been enough to stop the suicide? What are the symptoms and what can you do if you’re concerned about your own teen?

One thing you might want to consider is that no one takes their own life without thinking about it, often for a very long time. In many cases the teenager feels depressed and that they are suffering unbearably. They may feel that suicide is the only option they have to end their anguish. In order to lessen the chances of dealing with a suicide, take seriously any conversations that include talks of their death or people being sorry when they’re no longer around.

Suicides among young people ages 15 to 24 have risen dramatically over the past forty years or so. Those rates have reached around 5,000 each year. These statistics have made suicide the third leading cause of death among teenagers and college-age youth.

Recognizing the warning signs of suicide will take some effort on your part. You’ll want to pay attention to your teen’s actions and conversations. Spending time with your teen will enable you recognize suicidal signs which will include any of these clear warnings:

* An obsession with death
* Suicide threats – both direct and indirect
* Poems, songs, essays, or artwork with death as a main theme
* Statements such as “I want to die” or “I’m going to commit suicide” should always be taken seriously and require immediate intervention
* Dramatic changes in their personality or appearance including irrational or bizarre behavior
* Giving away cherished possessions
* Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities they’ve always enjoyed
* A drop in their grades or school performance
* Change in their eating and/or sleeping habits
* Becoming violent or rebellious; they may also try running away
* Neglecting their appearance
* Sudden drug and alcohol use
* Complaints about stomach aches, headaches, and fatigue which are often related to emotions
* Difficulty concentrating or complaints of being bored
* Not accepting praise or rewards for a job well done

If you’re concerned about your teen or even suspect they are contemplating suicide, don’t take a chance. Try to get them to talk about their feelings while being non-judgmental. Truly listen to them – both what they say verbally and with body language – and don’t lecture them. Trust your instincts and seek help promptly if you think the situation is serious.

Recognizing the warning signs of suicide in a teen can mean the difference between life and death. Remember that talk of suicide is more than a warning sign. It’s a cry for help and one that cannot go unheeded. It is important to ask pointed questions about what they are planning. Let your teen know that you’re there to listen and that you love them. Then seek the help of a mental health professional.

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