As your children grow into teenagers and then, youths, it
becomes more difficult to understand what they are thinking or
feeling. Teenagers face a host of pressures, from the changes of
puberty to questions about who they are and where they fit in. Most
of the time, parents pass these emotions as mood swings. But this
is a serious problem that has an impact on the health of your
teen.
1. Know the common warning signs of
suicide : They include making suicidal statements,
being preoccupied with death in conversation, writing, or drawing,
withdrawing from friends and family, having aggressive or hostile
behaviour and change in personality of your child.
2. Take away any drug and weapon from their
immediate surrounding: Check the environment for any
knives, guns, narcotic medications, rat poison, or anything else
that can be used as a weapon. Lock these items away so the child
cannot use them to hurt themselves.
3. Get professional help: The most common
cause of suicide among youth is depression and one of the ways to
help battle the illness is to take them to either a therapist or
professional depression counselor. The therapist will likely create
a safety plan for the child, which includes contact numbers and
resources they can access if they feel suicidal.
4. Be an active listener: Do not be
judgmental and critical in communicating with your child. Rather
than criticizing them, be empathetic and compassionate. Let the
child know that you understand whatever it is that they might be
going through.
5. Spend quality time with them: Suicidal
children may be more likely to pull away from others and spend time
alone. Stress the importance of social engagement and provide
opportunities for them to spend time with friends and family. Also,
pursuing their hobbies and passions can help the child feel better
about life and remember things they are good at.
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