Rise in adolescent and Youth suicide

Youth and Adolescent Suicidal behavior
Suicidal behavior is the end result of a complex interaction of psychiatric, social and familial factors. There are far more suicidal attempts and gestures than actual completed suicides. One epidemiological study estimated that there were 23 suicidal gestures and attempts for every completed suicide. However, it is important to pay close attention to those who make attempts. 10% of those who attempted suicide went on to a later completed suicide. A suicide has a powerful effect on the individual’s family, school and community. We must deal with it as a public health crisis in our schools, homes and clinics.
Social changes that might be related to the rise in adolescent suicide include an increased incidence of childhood depression, decreased family stability, and increased access to firearms.
Suicidal behaviors are often associated with depression. However, depression by itself is seldom sufficient. Other co-existing disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, substance abuse or anxiety can increase the risk of suicide. Recent stressful events can trigger suicidal behavior, particularly in an impulsive youth. Girls may be more likely to make suicidal attempts, but boys are more likely to make a truly lethal suicide attempt.
Risk factors for suicide include:
• Previous suicide attempts
• Close family member who has committed suicide.
• Past psychiatric hospitalization
• Recent losses: This may include the death of a relative, a family divorce, or a breakup with a girlfriend.
• Social isolation: The individual does not have social alternatives or skills to find alternatives to suicide
• Drug or alcohol abuse: Drugs decrease impulse control making impulsive suicide more likely. Additionally, some individuals try to self-medicate their depression with drugs or alcohol.
• Exposure to violence in the home or the social environment: The individual sees violent behavior as a viable solution to life problems.
• Handguns in the home, especially if loaded.
Some research suggests that there are two general types of suicidal youth. The first group is chronically or severely depressed or has Anorexia Nervosa. Their suicidal behavior is often planned and thought out. The second type is the individual who shows impulsive suicidal behavior. He or she often has behavior consistent with conduct disorder and may or may not be severely depressed. This second type of individual often also engages in impulsive aggression directed toward others.
Adolescents often will try to support a suicidal friend by themselves. They may feel bound to secrecy, or feel that adults are not to be trusted. This may delay needed treatment. If the student does commit suicide, the friends will feel a tremendous burden of guilt and failure. It is important to make students understand that one must report suicidal statements to a responsible adult. Ideally, a teenage friend should listen to the suicidal youth in an empathic way, but then insist on getting the youth immediate adult help.
Warning Signs:
• Suicidal talk
• Preoccupation with death and dying.
• Signs of depression
• Behavioral changes
• Giving away special possessions and making arrangements to take care of unfinished business.
• Difficulty with appetite and sleep
• Taking excessive risks
• Increased drug use
• Loss of interest in usual activities