Depression and Suicide
Depression and suicide are very scary concepts for parents to contemplate, yet many teens live with depression and/or think about suicide. Your support as a parent can make a huge difference in your son's life.
Depression is more than occasionally feeling sad or blue. It is typically something that lasts more than a week or two. It can start as a normal reaction to a situation or it can simply begin.
Depression in teens may be similar to that in adults. They may stop participating in social activities, even with good friends. A depressed teen may let his appearance and grades slip. However, depressed teens may not always appear sad. Depressed teens may instead be angry and irritable, or have significant anxiety or fears. These are all signs of a problem. Though not every teen shows a set series of signs, be sure you are looking for changes in your son so you can help when needed.
Fact
There are many mental health disorders that look like depression to the untrained eye. It is important for your son to have a correct diagnosis from a qualified mental health practitioner.
Suicide among teens is relatively rare, but is an issue all parents must be aware of. Although the numbers are changing somewhat, teen girls more frequently attempt suicide, but teen boys are actually more likely to die from a suicide attempt. This is because teen boys tend to choose more lethal methods of suicide.
Suicide is the third leading cause of death in teens. While it is often associated with other mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, and other illnesses, it can also be spontaneous. Frequently, suicides occur near specific instances like a romantic breakup, the death of a relative or friend, school problems, copycat suicides, and other problems that may come up quickly.
Alert
There is a National Suicide Hotline available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-SUICIDE. The hotline was established in 1999 as part of the Kristin Brooks Hope Center. You can also read more about suicide, depression, and helping those who are affected at its Web site:
Talk to your son about depression and suicide, even if he shows no signs of either depression or suicidal thoughts. This will show him you care and that he can approach you about these issues. If your son is uncomfortable talking to you, have him talk with another adult, such as a counselor or another family member. You should seek care for your son immediately if you observe any of the following signs:
Giving away possessions
Fascination with death in music, drawings, writing, or film
Sudden loss of relationships (family or friends)
Stating he wants to die or kill himself
Plans of suicide
Symptoms of clinical depression
Many people who are contemplating suicide are not capable of asking for help, so your help as a parent is critical. It is important for your son to get a proper diagnosis so that he can be treated appropriately. Most teens who attempt suicide are also clinically depressed. Many of the causes of disorders that lead to suicidal thoughts and behavior can be treated with therapy and sometimes medications. It is always wise to err on the side of caution.
