 The tragedy of suicide – especially if it involves a teenager – is devastating, it hurts the immediate family of course. But suicide also hurts the circle of friends and acquaintances.
This year a conservatively estimated 6,000 youngsters will commit suicide. They leave an estimated 36,000 people who are close family… by the time school chums, teachers, friends are added to this tragic list of affected people there are literally hundreds of thousands of victims.
The unfortunate thing is there is absolutely no good or positive impact in a self-induced death.
Added to this tragic statistic, are those who attempt to take their own lives, yet fail. There are 200 kids that attempt suicide for every ones who succeeds.
More girls attempt suicide than boys – some four to one. The boys are more successful three to one.
Anyway, you cut it, adolescence is a tough period in the growing process. It is normal to see and experience mood swings. There are a lot who cannot see the beauty of the emerging swan.
Suicide is not a spur of the moment decision that occurs when there is nothing better to do. Traditionally, it is preceded with forethought, elaborate preparation and some important clues.
Probably the biggest single cause of suicide comes from family disharmony caused by a variety of things – separation of the parents, two career families that leave less time for the children. The list mirrors all the things that cause family trouble.
Teens are under a great deal of competitive stress. The classroom and the playing field are obvious. The competition to make or improve a relationship is extremely important. Pushed by parents, peers and teachers, the youngsters are forced to look hard at career choices.
Added to these pressures are the strange demands put on the teenager by hormonal changes. An otherwise stable youngster suddenly gets hit with depression. Supporting their action is the violence they see in the world around them.
Quite separate and apart from the obvious alcohol and drug abuse there is a tie to the sensationalism of teen suicide. Professionals expect a rash of “copy cat” suicides to follow sensational media coverage of such incident. There is an obvious theatrical thrill for many youngsters who think they will live forever. It is hard for them to understand the permanence of death.
Prime candidates for suicide fall into five distinct groups:
Young adults…
… who have trouble with authorities caused by anti-social behavior, drug or alcohol abuse. Addiction is a warning sign!
… who repress feelings and seemingly can't discuss problems with anyone. Beware of isolation.
… who are perfectionists or socially inhibited and crumble under challenge.
… who are constantly putting themselves down, or have feelings of worthlessness or low self-esteem.
… who are suffering because of painful loss or death of someone close.
What to do
- Be available!
- Listen and listen and listen!
- Stop talking!
- Avoid pushing too far!
- Don't judge!
- Be honest!
- Don't be sworn to secrecy!
- Get help! …NOW!
Warnings Signs Checklist
- Change in eating or sleeping habits
- Withdrawal from old friends, family and regular activities
- Violent or reckless behavior
- Running away
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Unusual neglect in appearance
- Sudden weight gain or loss
- Radical change in personality
- Persistent boredom
- Declining quality of schoolwork
- Frequent psychosomatic complaints
- Loss of interest in favorite activities
- Inability to tolerate praise or recognition
- Giving away possessions or setting affairs in order
- Verbal hints
About Dr. Gruen:
Shirley N. Gruen, Ph.D. maintains her practice in clinical psychology in Southwest Houston and Fort Bend County. She treats children adolescents and adults in individual, group, couple, and family therapy using individually selected techniques. Her practice also includes pain and habit control, biofeedback, and consultations with community institutions, parents, schools and law enforcement agencies. To read more about Dr. Gruen, click here...
If you or someone you know have suicidal feelings, please contact the nearest suicide hotline in your state. |
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