Symptoms of suicidal teenagers
Teens and suicide: What parents should know
As a parent, you can approach suicide prevention in the same way you do other safety or health issues for your children. By educating yourself, you can learn what puts kids at greatest risk for suicide – and what protects them most strongly.
On this page
- Should parents be concerned about teen suicide?
- The facts
- Additional resources
- What can I do to protect my teen or tween from suicide risk?
- How can I tell if my child is behaving like a normal teenager – i.e. moody, etc. – or if there might be something wrong?
- How can I talk to my teen about mental health and suicide?
- Should I use the same approach for different age groups, i.e. tweens (ages 8 to 12) or teens (13 to 17)?
- What if they don’t want to talk?
- What if I’m concerned my child is thinking about suicide?
- What if my child knows someone who has taken their life? How do talk with them?
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Should parents be concerned about teen suicide?
Suicide is in the news and in popular entertainment now more than ever, especially in regard to teens. You can play a role in building up your child’s mental health simply by becoming aware of the risk factors and warning signs that can lead to suicide, making yourself available to your child, knowing how to practice having a caring conversation, and being aware that help is always available.
The facts
There were approximately 100,000 teen (15-19 year-olds) suicide deaths over the 40 year period between 1975 through 2015, the most recent year covered by the study.
Boys take their lives at 3-4 times the rate of girls. The suicide rate for teen boys saw a rise that peaked in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, then lowered in the late ‘90s and early 2000’s. This may be attributed to pediatricians increasingly taking on the role of treating depression. However, the rate has unfortunately been rising again since 2006.
The suicide rate for teen girls had a similar but less dramatic pattern. There has been an increase for girls over the last 10-12 years.
It’s worth noting there are fluctuations in suicide rates of all age groups over time.
Youth rates remain significantly lower compared to every older age group.
Additional resources
Risk factors and warning signs
While there is no single cause for suicide, there are risk factors and warning signs which may increase likelihood of an attempt. Learn what to look out for to keep your child or children safe.
Learn more
More Than Sad
The More Than Sad program shows you how to recognize signs of depression and other mental health problems, initiate a conversation about mental health with your child, and get help.
Learn more
Find a mental health professional
Who is a mental health professional, and how can they help? Find mental health providers in your area.
Learn more
LGBTQ crisis and support resources
LGBTQ crisis hotlines and support resources.
Learn more
What can I do to protect my teen or tween from suicide risk?
As a parent, you can teach and model healthy habits for mental health just as you would with physical health. Taking care of your own mental health, talking about it openly, and seeking therapy when warranted is one way to model healthy practices.
If your child sees you approaching your own challenges and learning for your own mistakes in an open way, they will understand that it’s okay to struggle and to learn from mistakes. They may develop flexibility and compassion for their own missteps — possibly even empathy for others, seeing how you navigate challenging times. They will also understand that life is messy and challenging for everyone at different times.
Check in with your child regularly, beyond just day-to-day tasks such as homework.
You can learn how to invite deeper conversations through further guidance listed on this page.
If your child has a history of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm or substance use, you should monitor them more closely, and consider involving a professional, either at key times, or for the longer term for more chronic conditions.
How can I tell if my child is behaving like a normal teenager – i.e. moody, etc. – or if there might be something wrong?
When children hit puberty, there are changes in their body and brain that can and do lead to behavioral changes.
But there is a normal range which can manifest as moodiness, irritability, and pushing you away. This is a natural part of adolescent development. What should be concerning is if you notice indications of hopelessness or worthlessness, a withdrawal from friends and activities, or suicidal thinking or behavior. These are not typical manifestations for teenage angst.
You know your child. You know their usual patterns, their common reactions to frustration and challenges, and what their good days and bad days look like. Trust your instincts if their behavior goes beyond these usual patterns of behavior. It could be just the tip of the iceberg of possible changes in their physical or mental health. It’s worth engaging them in conversation to get a fuller understanding of what they are experiencing so you can provide support, and get a better sense of how severe it is.
If your teen or tween’s sleep, energy, appetite, motivation, substance use, and frustration aren’t bouncing back to normal after a few days, have them see their pediatrician or a mental health practitioner.
How can I talk to my teen about mental health and suicide?
Don’t be afraid to have a conversation with your child about mental health and suicide. Ask your child how they’re doing, what’s happening in their world these days, and what their concerns are. It can start simply by asking, “Are you okay?”
Listen intently and without judgment. Ask open-ended questions, i.e. those that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. Resist the urge to offer quick fixes or solutions to their challenges, which tends to shut down further dialog. Validate and support their feelings.
Follow their cues, and say things like, “Tell me more about that. I’d love to understand more about what that’s like for you. When he said that/did that to you, how did that make you feel?”
Should I use the same approach for different age groups, i.e. tweens (ages 8 to 12) or teens (13 to 17)?
The approach is very similar for tweens and teens, but with changes in language based on their level of sophistication and self-awareness.
Use language that makes sense to your child, given their age, development, and what you know of how they think about things.
For a young child, you can ask about physical symptoms like stomach aches, and changes in feelings like getting upset or angry more lately. If it seems to you that they feel hopeless, trapped or overwhelmed – then ask if they ever think about hurting themselves or ending their life.
For older children, or kids who have demonstrated they are aware of their own thoughts and feelings, ask about their perceptions, as well as other symptoms like sleep problems, mood changes, and feelings of hopelessness, or of feeling trapped or overwhelmed.
What if they don’t want to talk?
If your child isn’t ready to talk, leave the invitation open for later by saying, “Whenever you want to talk, I’m here to listen and support you.” You could add “I won’t judge, and I’ll never stop supporting you, no matter what challenges you face.”
The likelihood is that your child will open up when you least expect it, sitting side-by-side rather than face-to-face, in the car or engaged in some other activity together.
When your teen starts to open up, be careful not to fall into the trap of jumping in with a solution or by saying, “You should…” or “Why didn’t you…”
What if I’m concerned my child is thinking about suicide?
If your child is talking about any level of distress, do not hesitate to ask them whether they’re feeling changes in their mood or level of stress, or having suicidal thoughts. Asking your child directly about suicide will not increase their risk, or plant the idea.
It will create an opportunity to offer support, and let them know you care enough to have the conversation.
You can say, “It sounds like you’ve been dealing with a lot lately. Does it ever get so tough that you think about ending your life?”
If your child gives any indication they have been thinking about suicide (unless they are in the act of self-harming) take them seriously. Continue to listen and engage in a caring, concerned, supportive manner. You can say things like, “Can you say more about that? I’m so sorry you’ve been feeling this way. I want to understand more about your perspective. I’m here for you no matter what. There is no problem too big that we as a family can’t get through. I’m going to keep supporting you and will also make sure you get the help you need to feel yourself again.”
Talk with your child about how to seek help. If you fear they may be at risk, get professional help right away.
Let them know you’ll be there for them no matter what, that your love is unconditional, and that you’ll help them get the support they need to get through this challenging time.
In a crisis situation, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text the Crisis Text Line by texting ‘TALK’ to 741741 to speak or text with a trained counselor who can provide guidance on the most appropriate next steps and resources. Calling 911 is best for situations when self-harm is occurring or is about to occur.
For help finding a Mental Health Professional, consult with your child’s pediatrician, call your insurance, or use this treatment finder.
What if my child knows someone who has taken their life? How do talk with them?
It is important as a parent to be there for your child if a friend or a classmate has died by suicide. You can find specific guidance in AFSP’s Children, Teens, and Suicide Loss booklet, written in partnership with the Dougy Center, The National Center for Grieving Children & Families.
The booklet can be viewed online here.
Connection makes a difference
Find a chapterTeen Suicide | Johns Hopkins Medicine
What is teen suicide?
Suicide is when a teen causes his or her own death on purpose. Before attempting to take his or her own life, a teen may have thoughts of wanting to die. This is called suicidal ideation. He or she may also have suicidal behavior. That’s when a teen is focused on doing things that cause his or her own death.
Suicide is the third leading cause of death in young people ages 15 to 24. The CDC reports that:
- Boys are 4 times more likely to die from suicide than girls.
- Girls are more likely to attempt suicide than boys.
- Guns are used in more than half of youth suicides.
What causes a teen to attempt suicide?
The teen years are a stressful time. They are filled with major changes. These include body changes, changes in thoughts, and changes in feelings. Strong feelings of stress, confusion, fear, and doubt may influence a teen’s problem-solving and decision-making. He or she may also feel a pressure to succeed.
For some teens, normal developmental changes can be very unsettling when combined with other events, such as:
- Changes in their families, such as divorce or moving to a new town
- Changes in friendships
- Problems in school
- Other losses
These problems may seem too hard or embarrassing to overcome. For some, suicide may seem like a solution.
Which teens are at risk for suicide?
A teen’s risk for suicide varies with age, gender, and cultural and social influences. Risk factors may change over time. They are:
- One or more mental health conditions, including substance use disorder
- Impulsive behaviors
- Undesirable life events or recent losses, such as the death of a parent
- Family history of mental or substance use disorder
- Family history of suicide
- Family violence, including physical, sexual, or verbal or emotional abuse
- Past suicide attempt
- Gun in the home
- Imprisonment
- Exposure to the suicidal behavior of others, such as from family or peers, in the news, or in fiction stories
What are the warning signs of teen suicide?
Many of the warning signs of suicide are also symptoms of depression.
They are:
- Changes in eating and sleeping habits
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Withdrawal from friends and family members
- Acting-out behaviors and running away
- Alcohol and drug use
- Neglecting one’s personal appearance
- Unnecessary risk-taking
- Obsession with death and dying
- More physical complaints often linked to emotional distress, such as stomachaches, headaches, and extreme tiredness (fatigue)
- Loss of interest in school or schoolwork
- Feeling bored
- Problems focusing
- Feeling he or she wants to die
- Lack of response to praise
Another warning sign is making plans or efforts toward committing suicide:
- Says “I want to kill myself,” or “I'm going to commit suicide.”
- Gives verbal hints, such as “I won't be a problem much longer,” or “If anything happens to me, I want you to know .
...” - Gives away favorite possessions or throws away important belongings
- Becomes suddenly cheerful after a period of depression
- May express weird thoughts
- Writes 1 or more suicide notes
These signs may look like other health problems. Make sure your teen sees his or her healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
How is a teen diagnosed as being suicidal?
Threats of suicide are a cry for help. Always take such statements, thoughts, behaviors, or plans very seriously. Any teen who expresses thoughts of suicide should be evaluated right away. Talk with your teen’s healthcare provider.
Any teen who has tried to commit suicide needs a physical checkup first to rule out life-threatening health problems. He or she should then get a mental health evaluation and treatment until he or she is stable. This often will take place at an inpatient facility to make sure of the child’s safety.
How is a teen treated for suicidal behavior?
Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health.
It will also depend on how severe the condition is.
Treatment starts with a detailed evaluation of events in your teen’s life during the 2 to 3 days before the suicidal behaviors. Treatment may include:
- Individual therapy
- Family therapy. Parents play a vital role in treatment.
- An extended hospital stay, if needed. This gives the child a supervised and safe environment.
How can I help prevent my teen from attempting suicide?
Learning the warning signs of teen suicide can prevent an attempt. Keeping open communication with your teen and his or her friends gives you an opportunity to help when needed. Also take these steps:
- Keep medicines and guns away from children and teens.
- Get your teen help for any mental or substance use problems.
- Support your teen. Listen, try not to offer undue criticism, and stay connected.
- Become informed about teen suicide. Resources include the public library, local support group, and the internet.
- Know the warning signs for depression:
- Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loneliness
- Declining school performance
- Loss of interest in social and sports activities
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Nervousness, agitation, or irritability
Teens can take these steps to help prevent suicide if they see warning signs in a friend:
- Take their friend’s behavior and talk of suicide seriously.
- Encourage their friend to seek expert help. Go with the friend, if needed.
- Talk with an adult they trust about their friend.
When should I call my teen’s healthcare provider?
Call your teen’s healthcare provider right away if your teen:
- Feels extreme depression, fear, anxiety, or anger toward him or herself or others
- Feels out of control
- Hears voices that others don’t hear
- Sees things that others don’t see
- Can’t sleep or eat for 3 days in a row
- Shows behavior that concerns friends, family, or teachers, and others express concern about this behavior and ask you to seek help
Call 911 if your teen has suicidal thoughts, a suicide plan, and the means to carry out the plan.
Key points about teen suicide
- Suicide is when a teen causes his or her own death on purpose.
- Suicidal ideation is when a teen has thoughts of wanting to die.
- Suicidal behavior is when a teen is focused on doing things that cause his or her own death.
- Normal developmental changes combined with stressful life events may cause a teen to think about suicide.
- Many of the warning signs of suicide are also symptoms of depression.
- Any teen who expresses suicidal thoughts should be evaluated right away.
Next steps
Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your child’s healthcare provider:
- Know the reason for the visit and what you want to happen.
- Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
- At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you for your child.
- Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help your child. Also know what the side effects are.
- Ask if your child’s condition can be treated in other ways.
- Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
- Know what to expect if your child does not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
- If your child has a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
- Know how you can contact your child’s provider after office hours. This is important if your child becomes ill and you have questions or need advice.
Get help & support for suicide
If you’re in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, find help in your area with Find a helpline.
If you believe that someone else is in danger of suicide and you have their contact information, contact your local law enforcement for immediate help. You can also encourage the person to contact a suicide prevention hotline using the information above.
Learn more about personal crisis information with Google Search.
Google’s crisis information comes from high-quality websites, partnerships, medical professionals, and search results.
Important: Partnerships vary by country and region.
| Country | Hotline organization | Website | Phone number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Argentina | Centro de Asistencia al Suicida | www.asistenciaalsuicida.org | (011) 5275-1135 |
| Australia | Lifeline Australia | www.lifeline.org | 13 11 14 |
| Austria | Telefon Seelsorge Osterreich | www.telefonseelsorge.at | 142 |
| Belgium | Center de Prevention du Suicide | www. preventionsuicide.be | 0800 32 123 |
| Belgium | CHS Helpline | www.chsbelgium.org | 02 648 40 14 |
| Belgium | Zelfmoord 1813 | www.zelfmoord1813.be | 1813 |
| Brazil | Centro de Valorização da Vida | www.cvv.org | 188 |
| Canada | Crisis Services Canada | crisisservicescanada.ca | 833-456-4566 |
| Chile | Ministry of Health of Chile | www.hospitaldigital.gob | 6003607777 |
| China | Beijing Suicide Research and Prevention Center | www.crisis.org | 800-810-1117 |
| Costa Rica | Colegio de Profesionales en Psicologia de Costa Rica | psicologiacr. com/aqui-estoy | 2272-3774 |
| France | SOS Amitié | www.sos-amitie.org | 09 72 39 40 50 |
| Germany | Telefon Seelsorge Deutschland | www.telefonseelsorge.de | 0800 1110111 |
| Hong Kong | Suicide Prevention Services | www.sps.org | 2382 0000 |
| India | iCall Helpline | icallhelpline.org | 9152987821 |
| Ireland | Samaritans Ireland | www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help | 116 123 |
| Israel | [Eran] ער"ן | www.eran.org | 1201 |
| Italy | Samaritans Onlus | www.samaritansonlus.org | 06 77208977 |
| Japan | Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology | www. mext.go.jp | 81-0120-0-78310 |
| Japan | Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare of Japan | www.mhlw.go | 0570-064-556 |
| Malaysia | Befrienders KL | www.befrienders.org | 03-76272929 |
| Netherlands | 113Online | www.113.nl | 0800-0113 |
| New Zealand | Lifeline Aotearoa Incorporated | www.lifeline.org | 0800 543 354 |
| Norway | Mental Helse | mentalhelse.no | 116 123 |
| Pakistan | Umang Pakistan | www.umang.com.pk/ | 0311-7786264 |
| Peru | Linea 113 Salud | www.gob.pe/555-recibir-informacion-y-orientacion-en-salud | 113 |
| Philippines | Department of Health - Republic of the Philippines | doh. gov.ph/NCMH-Crisis-Hotline | 0966-351-4518 |
| Portugal | SOS Voz Amiga | www.sosvozamiga.org | 213 544 545 963 524 660 912 802 669 |
| Russia | Fund to Support Children in Difficult Life Situations | www.ya-parent.ru | 8-800-2000-122 |
| Singapore | Samaritans of Singapore | www.sos.org | 1-767 |
| South Africa | South African Depression and Anxiety Group | www.sadag.org | 0800 567 567 |
| South Korea | Korea Suicide Prevention Center중앙자살예방센터 | www.spckorea.or | 1393 |
| Spain | Telefono de la Esperanza | www.telefonodelaesperanza. org | 717 003 717 |
| Switzerland | Die Dargebotene Hand | www.143.ch | 143 |
| Taiwan | 国际生命线台湾总会 [International Lifeline Taiwan Association] | www.life1995.org | 1995 |
| Ukraine | Lifeline Ukraine | lifelineukraine.com | 7333 |
| United Kingdom | Samaritans | www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help | 116 123 |
| United States | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | 988lifeline.org | 988 |
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Helpline
Information about the unified all-Russian children's helpline
0444 8-800-2000-122 .
When calling this number in any locality of the Russian Federation from fixed or mobile phones, children in difficult life situations, adolescents and their parents, other citizens can receive emergency psychological assistance, which is provided by specialists of services already operating in the constituent entities of the Russian Federation that provide services for telephone counseling and connected to a single all-Russian number of children's helpline.
Confidentiality and free of charge are the two main principles of the children's helpline. This means that every child and parent can anonymously and free of charge receive psychological assistance and the secrecy of his call to the helpline is guaranteed.
Working hours of the children's helpline in the constituent entities of the Russian Federation
(as of October 1, 2013)
Name of the subject of the Russian Federation 9Arkhangelsk region 09. 00-22.00 | |||
| 22 | with Nenets Autonomous Okrug | daily 09.00-17.30 | |
| 23 | Vologda region | around the clock | |
| 24 | Kaliningrad region | daily0039 | around the clock |
| 35 | Chechen Republic 08.30-20.00 | ||
| Southern Federal District | |||
| 37 | Republic of Adygea | ||
| 38 | Kalmykia | Pon-Pen. 8.00-17.00 | |
| 3 | |||
| 80 | Magadan region | pon.p.-five. 10.00-22.00 | |
| 81 | Sakhalin Region | 2400||
| 83 | Chukotka AO | Mon-Fri 09.00-22.00, closed 16.00-22.00 | |
Infographics. The principle of operation of a single federal helpline number for children, adolescents and their parents
Information from the regions about the work of the children's helpline
12/28/2016
What to do when there is a problem, but there is no one to tell about it?
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