The risk for teen suicide and depression can be detected early on by recognizing warning signs that may lead to such actions. The strongest risk factors for attempted suicide in youth are depression, alcohol or drug abuse, agressive or disruptive behaviors and a previous suicide attempt. If several of the following sumptoms, experiences, or behaviors are present, a mental health professional or another trusted adult, such as a parent or a school counselor, should be consulted (American Psychiatric Association).
Warning Signs include:
-Depressed Mood
-Frequent episodes of running away or being incarcerated
-Substance abuse
-Family loss or instability; significant problem with parents
-Expressions of suicidal thoughts, or talk of death or the afterlife during moments of sadness or boredom
-Withdrawal from friends and family
-Difficulties in dealing with sexual orientation
-No longer interested in or enjoying activities that once were pleasureable
-Unplanned pregnancy
-Impulsive, aggressive behavior or frequent expressions of rage
Other signs that should be recognized are if the teenager decides to get rid of sentimental items, cleans their room when it generally is messy, and/or throws possessions away. Also, if they suddenly become cheerful after experiencing a period of depression, it may be because they have finally chosen a solution to end their unhappiness: death. Comments that a parent or friend should listen for are things such as: "I'd be better off dead" or "I won't be a problem for you much longer" (American Psychiatric Association).
To learn more about the common warning signs and how to recognize them visit http://family.samhsa.gov/get/suicidewarn.aspx.