Teen Suicide – Identifying the Risk Factors
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Teen Suicide- Identifying the Risk Factors
To contemplate suicide at any age is awful. When it involves a teenager, who has a life full of potential ahead of them, it is almost too awful. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people aged 15-24 and suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among college students.
Teenage Suicide Statistics
The statistics and methods for calculating mortality can differ in different countries but one thing is clear, teen suicide is on the increase. The statistics suggest that while women make more attempts at suicide, men are more likely to succeed. In fact there are 4 male suicides for every 1 female suicide.
In the course of development adolescence is recognized as one of the most volatile. Adolescence is characterized by role change; communication can be problematic; teens often feel very isolated.
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Death and Dying
The New York Times has a collection of articles on the subject
www.nytimes.com
Teen Stress
Evidence-based research linking teen stress to at-risk behavior.
www.TPRonline.org
Suicide Information
Answers to your questions about suicide prevention, signs & more!
yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com
Sometimes an event in life can seem so terrible and painful that suicide is viewed as the only solution.
Some suicides are planned and some are impulsive. The list below gives some warning signs that a teen may be seriously considering suicide. If a parent or friend knows what to look out for, it may help avoid another teen suicide.
Teenage Suicide Warning Signs
One of the significant warning signs is a previous suicide attempt
Marked changes in personality, mood
Giving away personal possession, cleaning their room and throwing out things they own
Talking about suicide, wanting to die, saying life is not worth living, or expressing feelings of worthlessness
Depression, great sadness
Feelings of hopelessness and/or guilt
Feelings of isolation and loneliness
Changes to sleep patterns (such as excessive sleeping, early morning wakening, not sleeping well)
Withdrawing from activities and family
Having difficulty communicating. Being unable or having great difficulty talking
Changes to eating habits and appetite
Inability to concentrate
Losing interest in things they previously enjoyed
Having a friend or family member who has committed suicide
Using drugs or alcohol. There is some evidence that people who use are more likely to make a successful suicide attempt
Sudden marked behavioral changes such as restlessness or reckless behavior
Changes in academic performance
Loss of interest in personal appearance
Marks of self harming such as scratches or wounds on the body
Teen Suicide Risk Factors
There are times in a teenagers life that can contribute or make a teen more vulnerable to a suicidal act. These