TEEN SUICIDE RISK

TEEN SUICIDE RISK AND REMEDIAL MEASURES

1. INTRODUCTION

In the prevailing scenario are under extreme pressure during lockdown, especially during adolescence as it is a time of tremendous possibility to evolve. Importantly it can also be a time of great anxiety and confusion. The pressure mounts on them to perform academically, to fit in socially and to act responsibly. There is an awakening of a growing self-identity, sexual feelings and a demand for freedom that often conflicts with the rules set by others. 

A teen with ample backup from family, friends, peer groups, religious connection and involvement in extracurricular activities will enable to be an outlet and to deal with everyday frustrations. Notably, many teens do not believe that they have suicidal thoughts. Subsequently, feel isolated and disconnected from family and friends and these teens are at increased risk of committing suicide.

 2. FACTORS THAT INCREASE THE RISK OF SUICIDE AMONG TEENS                          

(a) A psychological disorder, especially bipolar, depression and drug and alcohol use. Notably, ninety percent of people who commit suicide have a psychological disorder.

 (b) Feelings of irritability, agitation, distress and irritability.

 (c) Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness that often accompany depression, for example a teen who experiences repeated failures at school, who is overwhelmed by violence at home or who is isolated from peers is likely to experience suicidal feelings.

(d) A previous suicide attempt.

(e) A family history of depression or suicide (depressive illnesses may have a genetic component, so some teens may be predisposed to suffer major depression).

(f) Physical or sexual abuse.

(g) Deprived relationships with peers/ parents, lack of a support association and feelings of being social isolation.

(h) Unable to deal with homosexuality in an obstructive family, hostile, school or community. environment.

(i) Suicide among teens often occurs due to adhering  a stressful life,  leading a perceived failure at school, the death of a loved one, a breakup with a boyfriend/girlfriend, a divorce or a major family conflict.

3. WARNING SIGNS.OF TEEN WHO IS THINKING ABOUT SUICIDE

(a) In general talk about suicide or death.

(b) Talk about "going away.

(c) Talk about feeling hopeless or feeling guilty.

(d) Pull away from friends or family.

(e) Lose the desire to take part in favourite things or activities.

(h) Self-destructive behaviour (drinking alcohol, taking drugs or driving too fast).

MESSAGE TO PARENTS

4. Children who commit or attempt suicide have given some type of warning to parents, relatives or friends ahead of time. So it is important for parents to know the warning signs, so that children who might be planning suicide can get the help they need. Parents should watch out for any behavioural changes. It would be the responsibility of parents that they do not put undue stress or demands on their children. Subsequently make their children perceive that they love them for whatever their failures may be, reassuring them of your love most often, perhaps, is the best preventive measure.

5. WATCH AND LISTEN

(a) A child who seems depressed and withdrawn should be kept under close observation. Poor grades are a manifestation and signal that teen is withdrawing at school.

(b) It is important to keep the lines of communication open and express concern, support and love. If a teen confides in you, exhibit that you take their concerns seriously. A clash with a friend might not be a big deal by and large, but for the teens it may be immense and consuming. It is important not to take their confides casually, as one can predict what a teen might be undergoing and manifolding their sense of hopelessness.

Notably, most of  the time teens feel pain to disclose suicidal thoughts to their parents. Undoubtedly, one must propose a more neutral person like a school counselor, a clergy member, a coach or doctor.

6. ASK QUESTIONS

Notably some parents are unwilling to enquire about teens if they have been analyzing suicidal thoughts or to self inflicting hurt. Undoubtedly, some parents fear that by asking over, they might sow the seed of suicide in their head. It is always a good idea to ask, even though doing so can be difficult. Importantly at times it helps to explain why one is asking their children.

7. GET HELP

(a) If one learns that a child is thinking about suicide, child should be immediately focused upon. Importantly immediate psychiatry assistance is to be rendered.

(b) If scheduled an appointment with a mental health professional, individuals are to make sure to keep the appointment, even if the teen says they are feeling better. Further suicidal beliefs do tend to come and go. However, it is important that teens get help developing the skills necessary to decrease the likelihood that suicidal thoughts and behaviours will emerge again if a crisis arises.

(c) If the teen refuses to go to the appointment it is important to discuss this with the mental health professional. Efforts should be made to attend the session and work with the clinician to make sure teen has access to the help needed.

8. CONCLUSION

One must be always mindful of any ongoing conflicts between a parent and child, this can fuel the fire for a teen who is feeling misunderstood, isolated, suicidal or devalued. One should help to address family problems and resolve them in a constructive way. Also let the mental health professional know if there is a history of depression, family violence, substance abuse or other stresses and an unconducive environment of criticism at home.

It is important to remain calm and ask the youth directly if they are thinking about suicide. Undoubtedly all stakeholders should focus on concern for their well-being and avoid being accusatory. Take time to listen to youths meticulous views to build rapport and reassure them that there is an unconditional help and they will not feel like this forever. Mention to be made, do not judge them and provide constant supervision. Do not leave the youth alone and remove all the means of self-harm. It is strongly recommended that when one identifies a suicidal soul or one needs counseling should contact suicide helpline in respective countries.

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