Suicide is among the top reasons for death among youth.
Kids as young as 10 years old are among the most affected by suicidal thoughts nowadays.
At least 22% of high school kids claim to have serious suicidal thoughts each year, and 10% have attempted it.
It is a serious health problem!
Most of the time, there are warning signs of suicide in youth.
This means if we pay attention, we can save lives.
Suicide is preventable!
Read on to learn the signs to watch out for, and how you can help aid the efforts of
youth suicide prevention.
Who is affected?
When it comes to suicidal thoughts, anyone can be affected — old or young, rich or poor, and regardless of race or gender.
The thing about suicide is that it can affect anyone and everyone.
Yes, being bullied and having lots of stress can lead to a higher risk, but even the happiest of people can suffer from thoughts that they are not enough.
The fact is, though, that a majority of the youth who attempt suicide have some form of mental health issue.
These issues can sometimes go unnoticed.
Depression is one of the leading causes of suicidal thoughts — which is not always seen.
A lot of suicide attempts among our youth is done on impulse.
They may be feeling doubtful of themselves, disappointed with their life, a sense of loss, or pressured.
Confusion, anger, attention and hyperactive disorders also are leading causes why a youth may feel that suicide is the only option to solve their problems.
Other reasons a person may attempt suicide include a family history of suicide, being exposed to violence, and access to weapons.
Know the signs
All the issues that may cause a youth to attempt suicide are treatable.
The first step to preventing suicide is catching the signs, diagnosing and then treating the issue.
Sometimes people who are having suicidal thoughts seem to show no signs.
Though there may be signs that can be caught including:
● Drastic changes to the persons sleeping or eating habits
● Withdrawing from family and friends
● Withdrawing from activities that they once enjoyed
● Talking about wanting to die, feeling that the world would be better without them, or feeling hopeless
● Being preoccupied with death or dying
● A decline in schoolwork
● A sudden top in making plans for the future
● And giving away prized possessions
How can you help?
If you notice any warning signs of suicide you should take immediate action to get the person help.
Talking about suicide may seem uncomfortable and may feel like you are putting thoughts in their head, but it can be helpful.
Ask the youth questions like “are you feeling sad or depressed?” or “ have you ever thought about hurting yourself?”
Allow them to talk about their problems and give them a safe space to be open, regardless of their issues.
Keep in mind that there are times when you may need more or professional help with youth suicide prevention.
A trained professional can be easily reached by:
● Taking the youth to a mental health professional
● Calling or texting the suicide & crisis line at 988
● Going online to sucidepreventionlifeline.org
● Or calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
These lifelines are meant to help people get through suicidal thoughts, are available 27/7, and are completely confidential.