SLBMI Child and Adolescent Services>> Child and Adolescent Disorders That We Treat>> Suicidal Behavior

Suicidal Behavior

"Everyone would be better off without me."
" I just want to be with grandma in heaven."

Suicide is the eighth leading cause of death in the United States with approximately 30,000 Americans committing suicide each year. The greatest increase in suicide attempts in the last 15 to 20 years has been among individuals 10-19 years of age, with the largest increase occurring among those between 10 and 14. It is now one of the leading causes of death among adolescents. Some experts estimate that more than half of all high school students have thought about suicide.

Why would a young person want to kill himself or herself?
Because of the age of the individual and the recognition that a teenager has many, many years ahead of them, it can be difficult to understand why young people would even consider harming themselves. Nonetheless, adolescence appears to be time when many give it serious consideration. The suicide attempts of adolescents are often impulsive and are typically motivated by a desire to influence others, to gain attention or affection, to express anger, or to escape an undesirable situation. Completed suicides among adolescents frequently occur immediately following an interpersonal conflict, such as arguing with a parent or breaking up with a girlfriend or boyfriend. In summary, for the youth, suicide might look like a reasonable course of action but it fails to take into account other factors that are part of the broader picture.

How can someone tell if someone is thinking of suicide?
It can sometimes be difficult to be sure what someone else might be thinking or feeling, but a family member who knows the person might make an educated guess. For example, approximately 80% of young people who attempt suicide give definite warnings of their intentions, such as statements about death, talking about being with someone who has died, or giving away prized possessions. The presence of psychological difficulties such as Depression, persistent behavior problems, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or Substance Abuse increases the chances that suicide will be considered. A pattern of impulsive behavior in a youth with few strong personal relationships is a matter of serious concern. Research indicates that 60 to 80% of individuals who commit suicide have made at least one previous attempt. Another factor that increases the risk of suicide is if a close friend or relative has attempted or completed a suicide.

What should I do if I think a child or adolescent might be suicidal?

1. Attempt to open up communication regarding what the youth is experiencing. This is not a time for grilling the youth but a serious conversation could be helpful.
   
2. Pay attention to any statements of wanting to die or thoughts of death or plans to hurt themselves. Even if you are sure the person would not act on the statements, they need to taken at face value as a starting point.
   
3. You may need to consider restricting access to potential weapons, such as firearms, sharp objects, and medications, or even removing them entirely from the home.
   
4. Immediately address suicidal thoughts, statements, or behaviors with a mental health professional. It is very challenging situation to face if a family member is indicating a desire to harm oneself. Utilize the expertise of those trained to deal with these matters.
   
5. If the risk of self-harm seems immediate, it may be necessary to go immediately to the local emergency room. Someone at the hospital will be able to evaluate the situation and, if necessary, put the youth in the hospital in order to keep them safe.