Signs Of Suicide
What Are the Signs of Suicide for Teens?
Talking about suicide or death in general
Talking about "going away"
Referring to things they "won't be needing," and giving away possessions
Talking about feeling hopeless or feeling guilty
Pulling away from friends or family and losing the desire to go out
Having no desire to take part in favorite things or activities
Having trouble concentrating or thinking clearly
Experiencing changes in eating or sleeping habits
Engaging in self-destructive behavior (drinking alcohol, taking drugs, or cutting, for example)
Why Do Teens Try to Kill Themselves?
It's because they want to escape from a situation that seemed impossible to deal with or to get relief from really bad thoughts or feelings.
What Does Substance Abuse Have to Do with Suicide?
Teens with alcohol and drug problems are also more at risk for suicidal thinking and behavior. Alcohol and some drugs have depressive effects on the brain. Misuse of these substances can bring on serious depression.
What Causes Suicide?
Many times, though, suicide attempts happen impulsively, in a moment of feeling desperately upset. A situation like a breakup, a big fight with a parent, an unintended pregnancy, being outed by someone else, or being victimized in any way can cause someone to feel desperately upset. Often, a situation like this, on top of an existing depression, acts like the final straw. Some people who attempt suicide mean to die and some aren't completely sure they want to die. For some, a suicide attempt is a way to express deep emotional pain. They can't say how they feel, so, for them, attempting suicide feels like the only way to get their message across.
How Do You Help Someone Who's Suicidal?
Showing someone that you understand and show them empathy, letting the person know that your there for them, listen to what they have to say, make them feel like you care about them, and you should make them get professional help.