Teen Suicide is a tragedy, and a way to try and prevent this tragedy from happening is to try and understand why these precious teens kill themselves. Below are a few “Risk Factors” and “Warning Signs” that parent’s should make themselves aware of in recognizing whether their teen is at risk.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death for teens and young adults aged 15 - 24. Males represent 86% of these teens and young adults, while females, who are more likely to attempt suicide, represent 14%. There is a firearm involved with 54% of all youth suicides.1

The first step in preventing suicide is to identify and understand the risk factors. A risk factor is anything that increases the likelihood that persons will harm themselves. However, risk factors are not necessarily causes. Research has identified the following risk factors for suicide

• Previous suicide attempt(s)
• History of mental disorders, particularly depression
• History of alcohol and substance abuse
• Family history of suicide
• Family history of child maltreatment
• Feelings of hopelessness Impulsive or aggressive tendencies
• Barriers to accessing mental health treatment Loss (relational, social, work, or financial)
• Physical illness
  Easy access to lethal methods
• Unwillingness to seek help because of the stigma attached to mental health and substance abuse disorders or suicidal thoughts
• Cultural and religious beliefs—for instance, the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
• Local epidemics of suicide
• Isolation, a feeling of being cut off from other people

Many of the warning signs of possible suicidal feelings are also symptoms of depression. Observations of the following behaviors by parents and care givers may be helpful in identifying adolescents who may be at risk of attempting suicide. 3

Warning Signs of Suicidal Feelings 4 

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