Back to School Spotlight: Adolescent and Teen Suicide

Your mental health matters. September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a vital reminder to take action in supporting loved ones, our community, and those who have been impacted by this leading cause of death. Suicide knows no age. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) WISQARS Leading Causes of Death Reports , in 2021: Suicide was the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10-14 and 25-34 , the third leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 15-24, and the fifth leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 35 and 44. With a new school year underway, mental health awareness for adolescents and teens takes the spotlight.

Suicide among youth is a serious and prevalent problem. Studies show that while girls attempt suicide more often, boys are more likely to die by suicide. Kristin Furan, PsyD, a seasoned psychologist who began practicing at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center in 2019, explains that while no single cause leads to suicide, environmental and health factors can play a significant role. Concern arises when stressors and health issues converge, resulting in feelings of hopelessness and despair. It’s important to note that not all stress in childhood is harmful. Stress can be positive and even tolerable; however, when it becomes toxic, it raises red flags.

“There are some risk factors to be aware of,” says Furan. “Does your child have a mental health concern? Do they have a serious health condition, including chronic pain, or have they had a traumatic brain injury? Are they struggling with confusion surrounding sexual orientation? Additionally, consider whether they are dealing with stressful events such as a parent’s divorce, financial crisis, bullying, or relationship problems.” Furan also highlights mental health conditions like depression, substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, conduct disorder, anxiety disorders, and personality traits such as aggression, mood changes, and poor relationships as important factors to consider.

Knowing the risk factors is just the first step; parents and guardians should also be aware of warning signs. “Some warning signs include talking about killing themselves, feeling hopeless, having no reason to live, feeling like a burden to others, or feeling trapped. They may sleep too much or too little, withdraw from activities they once loved, or increase their alcohol or drug use,” says Furan.

If you’re a parent who recognizes any of these risk factors or warning signs, you might be wondering, “What do I do?” While this is not an exhaustive list, it provides a starting point:

• Talk to your child if you think they may be suicidal. Start by expressing how much you love them and how important they are to you. Use a calm and supportive approach, showing empathy and care.
• Spend quality time together engaging in fun and relaxing activities.
• Monitor their social media activity.
• Stay in touch with your child’s school, coaches, friends, and their parents.
• Seek professional support if needed. Talk with your child’s physician and find a therapist experienced in working with suicidal teens who is a good match for your child.
• Take all suicidal threats seriously.
• Ask your child directly about their suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm.
• Inquire if they have taken any steps to act on those thoughts or if they have hurt themselves in any way.
• Eliminate access to means of completing suicide during high-risk periods. Ensure that guns, weapons, razors, and both over-the-counter and prescription drugs are securely stored.
• Monitor your child’s whereabouts.

If your child is reluctant to talk, leave the door open for future conversations by saying, “Whenever you want to talk, I am here to listen and support you. I won’t judge, and I’ll never stop loving or supporting you, no matter what happens in life.” They may choose to open up when you least expect it. Avoid saying things like, “Don’t think this way,” or “You shouldn’t feel this way.” Instead, try saying, “That sounds very painful,” or “I love you so much and am here to help you get through this.”

Remember, even though you may feel like you’re facing this challenge alone, resources are available. A great starting point is by connecting with the Behavioral Health team at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center.  Our team provides individualized, comprehensive care for patients across the lifespan, addressing a spectrum of mental health issues. Through our diverse outpatient services, we offer personalized professional support for diagnosis, treatment, and management, tailored to your needs. Psychologists and psychiatrists work closely with primary care providers to integrate mental health services.

If you or a loved one needs immediate assistance:
Crisis Line and Referral Service: 218-828-HELP (4357) or 800-462-5525

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: dial 988 or text Talk to 741741