Warning Signs of Depression and Suicide in Teens

Situational Factors

ü Recent loss – through death, divorce, separation, broken relationship, or loss of self-confidence, religious faith

ü Fear of institutionalization or illness

ü Burden of caregiving for a disabled family member

Behavioral Symptoms

ü Loss of interest in friends, hobbies, activities previously enjoyed.

ü Change in personality, ie, sadness, withdrawal, irritability, anxiousness, fatigue, indecisiveness, apathy.

ü Agitation, hyperactivity, restlessness (may include episodes of screaming or hitting, throwing things, failure to get along with friends and family). These symptoms may indicate masked depression.

ü Inability to concentrate on work, home activities or routine tasks.

ü Change in sleep patterns – insomnia, often with early waking, or oversleeping, or nightmares.

ü Change in eating habits – overeating or loss of appetite.

ü Abuse of alcohol or drugs.

ü Giving away favorite things, putting personal affairs in order.

Thoughts and Feelings

ü Hopelessness, worthlessness ( “nobody cares”, “everyone would be better without me”)

ü Overwhelming guilt, shame, self-hatred.

ü Worries about money or illness (real or imaginary).

ü Fear of losing control, going crazy, harming self or others.

Signs of Suicide

Teen suicide is a frightening topic but one that teachers may need to confront. Kids at risk tend to go through these three phases:

1. A history of family, school, or social problems.

2. A long depression, with symptoms that may include changes in eating and sleeping patterns, social withdrawal, or lack of interest in favorite activities.

3. A sudden crisis that deepens the depression, such as family problems (divorce), personal loss (losing a pet), or a blow to self-esteem (being fired).

Other warning signs to look out for are:

o Previous suicide attempts or threats.

o Recent suicide of a friend or relative.

o Preoccupation with death, suicide or depression in conversation or writing.

Prevention Tips

Don’t assume he/she isn’t the suicidal type.

Don’t leave him/her alone if you believe an attempt is imminent.

Don’t act shocked at whatever he/she tells you.

Don’t argue with him/her over whether suicide is right or not. This may make them feel even guiltier and more depressed.

Demonstrate your concern, really listen to their problems and be supportive.

Talk honestly. Ask direct questions like, “Are you thinking about taking your life?” Determine if he/she has a suicide plan. The more detailed the plan is, the more serious the threat.

Get professional counseling immediately from a school counselor, clergy, or psychiatrist.

Mary Halter, School Counselor - 1-800-458-7050 ext.2

Crisis Hotline - 1-800-SUICIDE