Youth suicide is a growing health concern. In fact, it’s the second-leading cause of death for young people between the ages of 15 and 24 according to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. During World Suicide Prevention Week, we discuss how to address this issue with child psychologist Dr. Laura Saunders from the Institute of Living at Hartford Hospital.
Q: Youth suicide is only second to car accidents as the leading cause of death in young people. That is unbelievable to me. Why is it so prevalent in this age group?
A: It’s often a confluence of factors. It has to do with stressors. Honestly, we in the mental health profession get concerned when there are high profile suicides like there were this summer. So we really like to talk more openly about this. Part of our mission is to decrease stigma and to talk more openly about these topics instead of sweeping them under the rug or pretending that people don’t do this or that they don’t get severely depressed.
Q: What are some of the warning signs that parents and friends of a teen should take note of?
A: What you’re looking for are changes in either speech, mood or behavior. In terms of talk, they might be saying things like, “This world may be better off without me.” They may be saying things that are point to hopelessness. In terms of behavior, they may be withdrawing more. They lose interest in activities that were previously enjoyable, and become isolation. They may actually be looking up online ways to kill themselves. Be aware of significant increases in anxiety, or significant worsening of depression.
Q: What kind of treatment is available? What can we do to help young people who are suffering like this?
A: The first step that parents can take is to contact their child’s pediatrician. There are also helplines. There’s a National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1.800.273.8255. There is also the National Crisis Text line, a new national service that really is great for young people. You text “HELP” to 741 741 to connect to volunteer professionals who are there 24/7. It’s a great way to connect with someone and get information or just have someone to talk to if you’re afraid to talk to anyone else.
If you or someone you know is in imminent danger, please call 9-1-1. Additional resources may be found by calling the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1.800.273.8255 or texting “HELP” to the national Crisis Text Line at 7-4-1-7-4-1. For local behavioral health services, visit the Hartford HealthCare Behavioral Health website here.