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It's a sad fact that many parents are taken by surprise by teens' suicide or suicide attempts. The truth is that sometimes, it's easy to miss the signs and just brush them off as "a phase" their teens are going through. It's important for parents to recognize the warning signs early so as to give your child the help that he/she really needs before it's too late. Studies show that out of 5 suicide cases, 4 were preceded by clear warning signs. Here are a few suicide warning signs to look out for:
- Loss of interest in favorite extracurricular activity.
- Substance use/abuse including cigarettes, alcohol, illegal drugs and prescription drugs.
- Behavioral problems like sexually acting out, defiance, etc.
- Changes in eating patterns (eating too little or too much).
- Changes in sleeping patterns (sleeping too little or too much).
- Neglecting physical appearance and hygiene, especially if this is unusual for the teen.
- Physical complaints such as stomach aches, body ache, fatigue, migraines, etc. Emotional distress often brings about physical distress as well.
- Grades in school are beginning to decline. When confronted about it, depressed or suicidal teens don't seem to care.
- Stops making an effort in school and loses interest in schoolwork.
- Starts taking dangerous risks like drunk driving, having unprotected sex, trying out dangerous sports, etc.
- Does not respond to positive comments and praise like before.
- Is frequently bored.
- Stops talking with family members and/or friends.
- Talks about death, sometimes even jokes about death. Makes comments like "people will be better off without me".
- Giving away prized possessions to siblings or friends.
- Throwing away prized possessions.
- Suddenly saying "i love you" or shows an unlikely display of affection towards siblings, parents, or friends. Sometimes talks like he/she won't be around anymore, similar to saying goodbye and says things like "In case something happens to me, I want you to know that..."
- Shows extreme cheerfulness after bouts of depression.
- Writes suicide notes.
It's also important to take note that not all warning signs will be present with suicidal teens. Sometimes teens who are excelling in school suddenly commits suicide. Seeing two or three of the signs above should be enough to raise a few red flags in parents' minds and to take proactive action about it.
The most important thing parents can do when they see suicide warning signs in their teens is to provide support to them. Teens who are suicidal have lost hope in life and feel as if what they are going through is insurmountable. If their parents show that they will be with them no matter what happens and they will help them find hope again, it will be a significant help in preventing suicide.
It's also important to find out what underlying problems are causing your teen's depression. Seeing a therapist can help you with short and long term solution to help your teen out of this very difficult situation.
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