Understanding Teen Suicide and the Factors Behind It

Teen suicide is a growing concern worldwide, affecting thousands of individuals, families, and communities. Adolescence is a period of intense changes, and for some, these changes become so overwhelming that it leads to thoughts of self-harm and suicide. Understanding these causes is crucial for addressing the crisis; it may even be life-saving.

Why Teen Suicide Matters

Teen suicide is the third leading cause of death for individuals aged between 15-19. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 700,000 people die by suicide every year, with a significant portion of these deaths occurring among teens. For every teen who dies by suicide, others may attempt it, creating a ripple effect.

The good news? Teen suicide is preventable. As caregivers, educators, and professionals, it’s important to be able to identify warning signs and help teens navigate these challenging feelings in a safe, supportive environment.

Common Causes of Teen Suicide

Mental Health Challenges

Mental health issues, like depression and anxiety, are the most significant contributors to teen suicide. These conditions often go undiagnosed or untreated, leaving teens to cope with emotional pain on their own.

• Teens with depression may experience feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and persistent sadness.
• Anxiety can present as extreme fear, worry, or panic, which may feel unmanageable.
• Lack of access to mental health resources can make these symptoms worse.

Bullying and Social Pressures

Adolescents are highly influenced by their social environment. Experiences like bullying, peer rejection, or harassment can lead to feelings of isolation and low self-worth.

• Social media can amplify bullying, making it harder for teens to escape the harassment.
• Teens often feel pressure to conform to expectations, or achieve unrealistic goals, in order to “fit in” with others.
• Not feeling accepted by others can cause self-esteem issues, which only increases feelings of hopelessness.

Family Dynamics and Trauma

Family relationships play a significant role in a teen’s emotional well-being. Conflict, neglect, and abuse within the home can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts.

• Teens from families with a history of mental illness or suicide may be more vulnerable.
• Traumatic events, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, sexual or physical abuse, can deeply affect teens’ mental health.

Academic and Extracurricular Stress

Many teens face intense pressure to excel academically and participate in extracurricular activities, often at the expense of their own mental health.

• Overwhelming workloads and a fear of failure can lead to burnout and exhaustion from life.
• Teens may feel that their self-worth is tied to their achievements, creating a fear of disappointing others.

Substance Abuse

Experimentation with drugs and alcohol is common during adolescence, but it can have dangerous consequences for vulnerable teens.

• Substance use can impair judgment, making impulsive actions more likely.
• It may also serve as an unhealthy coping mechanism for their pain.

Warning Signs of Teen Suicide

• Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal from friends and family, loss of interest in activities, or drastic mood changes.
• Verbal Cues: Statements like “I wish I wasn’t here anymore,” or “Life isn’t worth living.”
• Physical Symptoms: Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or energy levels.
• Risky Behaviors: Increased drug and alcohol use, reckless actions, or self-harm.
• Giving Away Possessions: This can indicate planning or intent to act on suicidal thoughts.

How to Help a Teen in Crisis

If you suspect a teen is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it’s essential to act immediately.

• Start a Conversation: Expressing your concern and offering your help is a great way to start the conversation.
• Listen Actively: Let them share their feelings without interrupting or offering unsolicited advice.
• Remove Immediate Risks: If you suspect immediate danger, ensure that the teen does not have access to anything that can cause them harm, and seek help right away.
• Seek Professional Help: Encourage them to speak to a counselor, therapist, or school psychologist. Therapy is a great way to ensure their safety and to help them work through these distressing thoughts. If you know someone struggling, reach out right away.

If you live in Colorado you or your child can call or text the Colorado Mental Health Line at *988.

If you are concerned about the safety for yourself or a loved one, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room or mental health crisis center.

It is hard to think clearly when you are having suicidal thoughts, this is why it is so important to seek help immediately so that you or your loved one can be kept safe.