Warning signs for teen suicide

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Updated: February 26, 2012 8:03AM

Dr. Wallace: Will you please tell me the warning signs for potential suicide victims?

Nameless, Moncton, New Brunswick

Nameless: Suicide is now the third leading cause of death among young people ages 15 to 24. Also, the suicide rate has tripled over the past 30 years for teenagers.

Which teen is thinking about ending his life? According to Dr. James Comer, professor of child psychiatry at Yale University, suicide warning signs include: noticeable change in eating and sleeping habits; withdrawal from friends and family and from regular activities; persistent boredom; decline in the quality of school work; violent or rebellious behavior; running away; drug and alcohol abuse; unusual neglect of personal appearance; difficulty concentrating; radical personality change; complaints about physical symptoms, such as stomachaches, headaches and fatigue.

Comments such as, “I won’t be a problem much longer,” or “It’s no use” may be verbal signs of suicidal thoughts. A teen putting his or her life in order, throwing or giving away favorite possessions or cleaning his or her room, if this is uncommon, may be considering suicide. A sudden, forced cheerfulness after a period of depression is another sign.

Research indicates that youngsters who attempt suicide are more responsive to suggestion than others. The presence of examples or models also seems to be a factor. Thus, adolescents from families or in schools or groups in which suicide has occurred are more at risk.

Teen suicide often occurs after a loss, such as the death of a loved one, breakup with a girlfriend or boyfriend or parental divorce. When such conditions exist, it is particularly important that adults be alert to the warning signs.

Write to Dr. Wallace
at rwallace@galesburg.net