Suicide in Teens and Young Adults

A friend whose daughter committed suicide told me that her daughter was a recovering alcoholic and an argument with her significant other had pushed the daughter back to drinking and, ultimately, suicide. Sadly, suicide rates are rising among American teen girls and young adults. In conjunction with the rise in suicide is an epidemic of depression in teens and young adults.

One in five adults has clinical depression, and fewer than thirty percent seek therapy. The hormonal changes that teens and young adults are dealing with, a documented decline in coping skills, as well as difficulties in emotion regulation create a perfect formula for depression and suicide. Moreover, teenage and young adult depression is difficult to recognize and distinguish from other psychological problems, such as anxiety, ADD, and substance abuse.

But nothing happens in a vacuum. Thus, it is crucial to look for and recognize the signs that potential suicide victims display. Depression detected early is one of the easiest disorders to remediate. It is important to know your child and remember you are a parent and entitled to parent, interfere, and intervene for your child's safety.

Parents can also try the following:

1. Talk, talk, talk. Always have a running conversation with your teen or young adult. Talk to them about things that matter, including depression and suicide. There is almost always something that parents who are involved in their children’s lives can do to prevent suicide. Know your child or young adult, their lifestyle and friends. If someone they know commits suicide, it is imperative to immediately open the discussion while watching your child's responses.
2. Be careful never to discount or dismiss your teen or young adult's feelings. Instead, value and validate what they are willing to share; this allows you to be proactive.
3. Before you raise an issue or problem with your teen or young adult, be certain you have done your homework and researched answers and solutions.
4. Be aware of support services and mental health professionals. Offer your child access and your company—letting them know you are there for them 100 percent.
5. Pay attention to your child’s moods and feelings, and take seriously any threat of suicide. If your child has a substance use problem, pay attention to it and deal with it honestly.
6. Educate yourself on the most effective ways to discuss suicide and depression with your teen or young adult.

There is a contagion effect of suicide. It is crucial to actively recognize the signs of depression, substance use, and changes in your teen’s behavior in school or on the job, so you can take the initiative and intervene early.

If you or someone you love is contemplating suicide, seek help immediately. For help 24/7 dial 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, or reach out to the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741. To find a therapist near you, visit the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.