Research has shown that one in twenty teenagers is affected by depression, which involves symptoms such as irritability, tearfulness, moodiness and overwhelming negative feelings. Someone who is depressed may also lose interest in the basic aspects of their life, such as friendship groups, hygiene and their appearance – they may seem tired all the time or have a poor appetite, which can lead to weight loss. In children, it’s also important to watch out for feelings of isolation, fear of talking to friends or family members about how they feel, and situations in which the child may act out as a way of expressing their emotions rather than verbalising them.
There are various events which can trigger depression, such as the death of a family member or a friend, drug abuse or money problems. Depression can develop into the individual becoming a suicide risk, as they feel as though they have no way out of their emotional hole. In children under the age of 14, suicide is rare as they lack the understanding and ability to act on their thoughts. However, in older children, the number of suicide cases is rising. Young women are more likely to resort to self harm and attempted suicide, rather than suicide itself.
If you think your child or a friend may be at risk of suicidal attempts, there are ways you can help them. Often, speaking to someone outside of your family or friends can help, so perhaps guide them in the direction of a trusted teacher, their doctor or a counselor who can offer impartial advice. Helplines such as Childline are also useful as the individual can talk openly about their fears and feelings without the worry of being judged. If the person is suffering with severe depression, there are medication options which can help alleviate the symptoms, so they should speak to their GP if this is the case who can then prescribe the correct dose.
How Can You Spot the Signs of Potential Teen Suicide?
