Teen Depression and Suicide is Not to Be Taken Lightly
When a teenager experiences depression, they do not have the life experience to know that this too shall pass. Teen depression and suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Many adults realize this, but your child may think they will be feeling like this for the rest of their life.
If you suspect that your child is suffering with teenage depression, it is important that you take them for treatment. Teen depression and suicide is on the rise and there is nothing more tragic than a young life being snuffed out because of it.
Some Facts Regarding Teen Depression and Suicide
The CDC or the Center for Disease Control states that for 15-24 year olds, suicide comes in third as a cause of death for this age group. That is a frightening statistic and one that parents should not take lightly. Teen depression and suicide often go hand in hand as well as other psychological disorders that can be treated.
Teen depression and suicide instances rise considerably if your child is indulging in recreational drugs or drinking. It is said these teens have a higher risk of committing suicide than those that don't abuse substances.
Warning Signs of Teen Depression and Suicide
You may want to chalk up your teen's talk of suicide and death to just melodramatic tactics for attention. You should never take a teenager's threats of suicide lightly. Even if they joke about committing suicide, if your teen is experiencing depression they should be watched closely.
If your child has been saying things like, "There is no way out for me," or "I wish I was dead," or they would be better off dead, take notice and try and talk to your teenager about the worthless and hopeless feelings they may be experiencing. Lots of teens have a romantic view of death. They envision their friends and loved ones crying around their funeral casket and hearing them say, "I should have treated Jane or John better!" They often fail to make the connection that once they are dead, they are really and truly dead.
If your child is engaging in reckless or risky behavior this too may be a warning sign. If a teacher calls your attention to dark writings and talk of death and dying, you should take heed. Your child may give away treasured belongings to loved ones or act as if they are saying goodbye forever. If you notice any of these types of behaviors make sure you take your child for some sort of psychological treatment before they make good on their promises or threats and you have lost them forever.
|
