Nationally known forensic psychiatrist Dr. Carl Greiner says that, while warning signs are always there before emotionally troubled people act out, our society is still learning how to respond to those signs. A young person who's exhibiting warning signs should be evaluated immediately by a mental health professional.

"Americans probably delay too long, Greiner said, in strongly recommending that disturbed young people be evaluated. 'Part of the great American tradition of liberty is that we tend to be very hesitant about doing that,' he said."

But incidents like the mall shooting which took place in Omaha, Nebraska a couple of weeks ago bring into question the balance between public safety and individual liberty. Someone who's suicidal is also at risk of hurting other people. Experts urge the general public to use crisis centers and hotlines to get help either for themselves or others who may be in trouble.

If you fear your teen may be depressed or suicidal, get them help immediately! Learn about therapeutic boarding schools so you can get your teenager they help they so desperately need.

Labels: mental_health, treatment_programs, warning_signs