Being a teenager is one of the most exciting stages in our lives. This is the time when we realize who we are, know what we want and experience many firsts before becoming an adult. Teenage years is also the time when most of us go through a rebellious stage, we occasionally break rules, go against the norm and establish ourselves in our own terms. Come to think of it, being a teenager is quite difficult so many things to experience, several physical, psychological and emotional changes to go through on top of school and work that needs to be accomplished. No wonder some teens go through depression and emotional distress, some would even resort to committing suicide.

Teenage suicide or even an attempted suicide is a very devastating event to anyone who’s involved. The reason behind suicide is almost always complex and very complicated. Usually a combination of external pressures, personal issues, family problems, and social struggles leads a teen to commit suicide. Teens show warning signs if they are planning on killing themselves, being aware and vigilant of these signs is one of the most effective means of suicide prevention. Studies show that 4 out of 5 suicides and suicide attempts had warning signs. What are the teenage suicide warning signs?

First warning sign is the sudden disinterest in a certain favorite activity for example a teenage boy might love playing basketball and all of a sudden stops playing it. Second warning sign is problems with school or work, the teenager might be constantly failing his grades or isn’t performing well in his job. Third warning sign is substance abuse; he might start using prohibited drugs and alcohol. Fourth warning sign is behavioral problems. The teenager might become very irritable; have mood swings and attention difficulties. Fifth warning sign is withdrawal from friends and family members. Sixth warning sign involves sleep disturbances; he might experience insomnias or sleep all the time. Seventh warning sign is the neglect of personal hygiene and appearance; it might take the teenage days or even weeks of not bathing. Eight warning sign is risk taking behaviors; the teenager might cross the street without looking, or he might drive his car carelessly. Ninth warning sign for impending suicide in teens is severe boredom; he would normally loose his zest for life, become withdrawn and isolated. Last warning sign is the verbal and non-verbal hints of a suicide plan. The teenager might verbalize “I want to kill myself” or simply say   “I want to die right now”, non-verbal cues would include suicide notes and letters, and giving away of prized possessions and favorite personal belongings.

Understanding these 10 teen suicide warning signs is the first step in acknowledging the presence of a valid reason behind the impending suicidal act. Observing the signs can potentially prevent suicide from happening. It can even reveal the cause of the teenager’s problem. Psychological help can be given as a form of suicide management as well as full support from the teen’s family and friends which is one of the most effective ways of suicide prevention