How to Know if a Teenager Is a Risk for Suicide

Suicidal behavior is terribly common in the teen population. Adolescents are often going through a period of emotional turmoil as they establish their identities, cope with the changes of puberty, navigate the social and dating scenes, and handle school and family responsibilities. Chronic stress in any of these areas of life can push a teen to want to take their own life. If you are suspicious that your teenage loved one may be having suicidal thoughts, it’s important that they get help right away. Find out if your teen is at risk for suicide by spotting common risk factors like depression and observing their behavior. Then, learn how to get your teen professional assistance.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Checking for Risk Factors

1
Recognize the signs of depression. Risk of suicide is higher in teens who are struggling with depression. This is a serious condition that should be addressed as soon as possible. Symptoms of depression may include feeling sad or hopeless, crying a lot, having changes in sleeping or eating habits, having trouble concentrating, complaining of aches and pains, and losing interest in previously enjoyable activities.^{[1]XTrustworthy SourceHelpGuideNonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources.Go to source} This generally has to last for two weeks or more to be considered depression.
- If you suspect your teen is depressed, gently share your concerns with them and let them know you are there for support. You might say, “I’ve noticed that you have been sleeping a lot and not eating. Jacob heard you crying late into the night. I’m worried and I think we should get you to a doctor.”
2
Figure out if your teen is involved with bullying. Researchers have identified a link between bullying and suicidal behavior. However, this is not to say that bullying causes suicidal behavior. Teens who are bullied cope with a lot of pressure both at home and at school. Unfortunately, they may see suicide as the only way out.^{[2]XTrustworthy SourceCenters for Disease Control and PreventionMain public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human ServicesGo to source}
- On the other hand, suicidal behavior isn’t only common in victims of bullying. Studies show that students who report being involved in bullying have higher rates of suicide. This means that the victim, the bully, or any witnesses are at risk.
- Parents should start and open dialogue with their children about bullying so that they feel more comfortable discussing this behavior. Get involved with your teen’s friends and the school in order to stay in the loop about possible bullying behavior.
3
Realize the connection to physical or sexual abuse. Exposure to abusive behavior or being the victim of this behavior increases a teen’s odds of feeling suicidal. If you have knowledge that your teen has been physically or sexually abused, pay close attention to their behavior to prevent suicide.^{[3]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- Keep in mind that by this age, you can usually have an open conversation with your teen about these things. If you know that your teen has been abused, or notice they are acting differently, then try asking them about it. Also, let them know that they can always come to you to talk if they ever start to struggle.
If your teen has attempted to take their life in the past, then they are more likely to try again in the future. Consider your teen’s history and any attempts they have made to help you determine their risk.^{[4]XTrustworthy SourceCenters for Disease Control and PreventionMain public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human ServicesGo to source}
5
Look for a family history or exposure to suicidal behavior. Teens who have a parent with a history of depression or a relative who has attempted or completed suicide are also at risk. Similarly, if your teen witnessed the suicide of a family member, or has a friend or peer who recently attempted or died by suicide, this also increases their chances of having suicidal thoughts.^{[5]XResearch source}
- Talk to your child about their exposure to suicidal behavior. You might say, “Everyone in the community is really shaken by the Jefferson boy’s suicide. How are you dealing with all of this?” You can also ask, “If you ever started having thoughts like that, what would you do? Would you feel comfortable coming and talking to me?”
6
Decide if your teen has a substance abuse issue. Another risk factor for teen suicide is drug or alcohol abuse. Use of drugs and alcohol is also a form of self-medication for teens who are coping with anxiety or depression as it helps numb uncomfortable feelings. However, these substances often intensify the negative feeling and make teens feel worse. If you suspect your teen may be abusing drugs or alcohol, get them to an experienced addiction counselor.
- Signs of substance abuse may include making new friends and neglecting existing social ties, declining academic performance, being very secretive, neglecting personal hygiene, and withdrawing from family.^{[6]XResearch source}
7
Think about any recent changes your teen has experienced. Coming “out of the closet”, moving to a new place, going through a breakup, dealing with parents’ divorce, becoming pregnant or losing a close friend or family member are all significant life changes that may provoke suicidal behavior in teens. Any of these changes may bring on unpleasant feelings that a teen doesn’t know how to handle.
- If your teen has recently experienced a significant life change, watch them closely. Let them know that you are there for support or recommend that they talk to a school counselor, teacher, coach or other trusted adult. Social support serves as a protective factor against teen suicide.^{[7]XTrustworthy SourceChild Mind InstituteNonprofit organization providing evidence-based care for children with mental health and learning disorders and their familiesGo to source}
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Examining Recent Behavior

Teens who are considering suicide may demonstrate acting-out behaviors that are drastically out of character. They may also have an attitude of ambivalence or apathy. These behaviors may be self-destructive in nature like engaging in unprotected sex or drinking and driving. If you notice any reckless behavior in your teen that seems more pronounced than normal, take notice.^{[8]XResearch source}
2
Listen for a preoccupation with death. Many teens who are thinking about suicide give warning signs such as a strange preoccupation with death. Your teen may write poems or songs about death or loss. They might be obsessed with films or TV shows that have undertones about death.
- They might also be preoccupied with what happens after death, such as the afterlife.
3
Find out if your teen has been giving away belongings. If your teen makes inferences about going away or seems to be saying “goodbye” to loved ones, they may have a plan to take their life. Other signs might include them giving their prized possessions away to siblings or friends, or simply throwing them away. They may even ask to visit all their relatives.^{[9]XResearch source}
- This sort of behavior is common in teens who have a clear plan to harm themselves. Therefore, you should get your teen professional help right away to keep your teen safe. Also, avoid leaving your teen alone if you notice this behavior.
- Other similar forms of the behavior might include refusing to make plans for the near or distant future, or refusing to commit to things.
A teen who has made the decision to take their own life may totally drop out of the social scene. They no longer have an interest in hanging out with friends and try to skip family gatherings. If you notice a generally outgoing teen who starts to pull away from friends and family, this could be a warning sign.^{[10]XResearch source}
Another warning sign associated with teen suicidal behavior is an overall neglect of their lives. Teens who were once incredibly interested in their appearance no longer seem to care if their hair is unkempt and too long. Their grades drop significantly at school. They dodge extracurricular practice and make up excuses as to why they aren’t participating.^{[11]XResearch source}
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Preventing Suicide in Teens

1
Take threats of suicide seriously. Loved ones can prevent teen suicide by taking any threats seriously. True, some teens may threaten suicide as a way to act out, but you’re better off responding to these threats than finding out later that they were earnest. Many people who go forward with suicide gave some indicator to loved ones of their intentions. Don’t ignore these threats.
- If you hear your teen threaten suicide or if you find a suicide letter, talk openly with them about it. Although they may not expressly ask you for help, you should offer it. You might ask, “You said that you would take your life. What caused you to feel this way? How can I help? Talk to me.”^{[12]XTrustworthy SourceHelpGuideNonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources.Go to source}
- Some people worry that talking about suicide will lead to suicide, but talking about suicide saves lives. Be willing to have a conversation with your teen about your concerns.
2
Remove any weapons or prescription pills. If you suspect that a teen may be contemplating suicide, you need to reduce their odds of completing the act. Immediately move or get rid of any prescription pills they may have access to. Similarly, lock up any weapons like guns or knives safely or remove them from the household entirely.^{[13]XTrustworthy SourceHealthyChildren.orgHealth information from the American Academy of Pediatrics.Go to source}
- If your teen gets prescription medication, don't leave the entire bottle in their room. Lock it up and give them what they need for each day or week. (Ask your doctor if it's safe for them to have a week's worth of medication in a pill organizer or if you need to give them pills once a day.)
3
See a mental health counselor. Your teen needs to see a doctor or therapist for suicidal behavior. You might get a referral from your family doctor or research a mental health therapist online. If your teen seems to be in need of immediate help, call a suicide hotline or get them to an emergency department right away.^{[14]XTrustworthy SourceHelpGuideNonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources.Go to source}
- In the meantime, do not leave your teen alone. Surround them with support and let them know that you will help them get the help they need.
- Be sure to spend some time alone with this therapist as well. This will give you an opportunity to work through your feelings on the situation and get guidance about how to address the situation in a healthy way. Be sure to make time to take care of yourself as well.
Many teens who have suicidal thoughts and feelings can prevent an attempt by creating a suicide safety plan. This serves as a contract that they develop with their families and mental health providers. The plan might include a list of actions a teen can take when feeling suicidal like calling a hotline, seeking support from a parent or friend, practicing stress management techniques. They sign the contract saying that they will try these steps if they think about harming themselves.
5
Offer support. Teens who are at risk of suicide may pull away, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need or want support. Share your concern for their well-being and point out various individuals they can go to in a crisis. Talk in a gentle, non-accusing way, letting your teen know that you do not blame them for these feelings.
- For example, you might say, “I’m so sorry that you are feeling this way, but I’m glad we are talking about it. Your father and I are here for you. We are ready to talk anytime you need. Plus, if you don’t want to talk to us you can call your counselor or a hotline. We want to make sure you know you are not alone in this.”^{[15]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Psychological AssociationLeading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologistsGo to source} Ask your teen to specifically identify who they are comfortable talking with about this.
6
Encourage positive changes. Since many teens who consider suicide have an underlying mental illness, they can benefit from positive lifestyle behaviors. In addition to strong social support, eating nutritious foods, getting plenty of exercise, and sleeping about 8 to 9 hours each night are healthy choices that can counteract stress and depression.
- Everyone can benefit from a better diet, exercise and sleep habits, so make it a family commitment.
- Also, make sure to encourage your teen to engage in activities that they enjoy and are passionate about, such as a hobby, sport, or other special interest.
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