How is suicide prevention among adolescents work?
Suicide prevention among adolescents is a critical issue that affects people of all ages, but it is particularly important among adolescents. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people aged 15-29 years old, and the number of suicide attempts and completed suicides among this age group is on the rise. Suicide prevention efforts must prioritize adolescent mental health and provide targeted interventions to reduce the risk of suicide among young people.
Mental Health Awareness:
Mental health is a critical component of suicide prevention among adolescents. Adolescents who struggle with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, are at increased risk for suicide. Mental health awareness and education are essential to suicide prevention efforts because they help reduce stigma and increase access to care for young people who need it.
Depression:
Depression is one of the most common mental health issues that increase the risk of suicide among adolescents. Depression is a mood disorder that affects millions of young people worldwide. Symptoms of depression may include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair, as well as changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and energy levels. If an individual does not go through treatment, it may lead to suicide. It is essential to recognize the signs of depression in adolescents and seek help as soon as possible to prevent suicide.
Suicide Hotline:
Suicide hotlines are an essential resource for suicide prevention among adolescents. These hotlines give instant support to those who are in crisis, trained professionals help them through challenging times. Suicide hotlines are available like Telemanas (14416 or 1800-91-4416) and other helpline numbers of different states, and they keep it confidential. Encouraging young people to seek help from suicide hotlines can be a lifesaving step in preventing suicide.
Suicide Warning Signs:
These warning signs may assist to find adolescents who may be at risk. These warning signs may include changes in mood, behavior, or speech patterns, as well as increased substance use, reckless behavior, and feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. Recognizing these warning signs is critical to suicide prevention among adolescents because it allows for early intervention and treatment. I make it simple for you to identify the warning signs. It starts with a simple acronym “IS PATH WARM” Check it below:
I – Ideation (Any thoughts on ending life)
S – Substance Use (Is the individual using any substance like Alcohol, Cannabis, Opioids, etc.
P – Purposelessness (No purpose in life)
A – Anxiety (Anxious most of the time)
T – Trapped (Feeling trapped in a situation)
H – Hopelessness (No hope for the future)
W – Withdrawal (Staying away from people – Socially isolated)
A – Anger (Frequent mood outbursts)
R – Recklessness (spending money, shopping, rush driving, etc.)
M – Mood swings (Frequent mood swings)
Why is it important to check for the warning signs?
It is important to identify the warning signs as it helps to identify people who are at risk. There are chances that people with warning signs may have a high frequency of suicidal thoughts but it doesn’t mean a person with the presence of one or more warning signs will end his/her life.
I have seen cases in which a person has more than 4 warning signs and presents with suicidal thoughts but did not end his life on the other hand I have read about a case in which a person was present with 2 warning signs but died by suicide. It is all about the resilience level and coping mechanism of an individual.
This is why we work on the resilience level and healthy coping skills of an individual. It doesn’t mean you ignore the warning signs because it helps you to recognize people who may be at risk. Your attention and quality conversation can help a person. If you find someone with warning signs then do tell them to ask for professional help.
Self-Harm:
Self-harm is a behavior that may be associated with suicidal ideation among adolescents. Self-harm involves deliberately injuring oneself, such as cutting or burning, as a way to cope with emotional pain. While self-harm may not always lead to suicide, it is a warning sign that an adolescent is struggling and needs help. Understanding self-harm and its relationship to suicide can help prevent suicide and provide support to adolescents who are struggling.
Suicide Survivor:
Suicide survivors among adolescents are those who have lost a friend or loved one to suicide. Suicide survivors may experience intense grief, guilt, and other complex emotions following the loss of a peer. Suicide prevention efforts must also focus on supporting suicide survivors and providing them with the resources they need to cope with their loss.
Coping with Suicidal Thoughts:
Adolescents may find it difficult to cope with suicidality, but it is doable with the proper support and proper treatment. Coping strategies may include seeking professional help, talking to a trusted friend or family member, and engaging in self-care activities like exercise, meditation, or creative outlets. It is crucial to remember that suicidal thoughts are a symptom of a larger issue and that help is available.
Resources for Suicide Prevention:
There are many resources available for suicide prevention. It may include suicide hotlines, crisis counseling services, support groups, and mental health treatment providers. It is essential to research and understand these resources and how to access them if needed.
How to Help Someone Who Is Suicidal:
It is not an easy task to help someone who is suicidal but at the same time, it is not difficult as well. You just have to act as a gatekeeper. Look for the warning signs that I discussed above. You have to listen to them without any judgment, not react to their replies and behavior, and try to encourage them to seek professional in this way you can save a life or a family.
I request schools, colleges, and organizations to identify these warning signs to help the individual. Your one step not only saves a person but saves one family. You never know who is dependent on that person for survival.