Troubled Teens

Librarians to Learn How to Help Teens in Crisis

According to a study published in the February issue of Pediatrics, teenagers are often the first to know when one of their friends is considering suicide. But they rarely turn to an adult for help.

"That’s one reason the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) is running a program at this summer's American Library Association annual conference on how to address critical and sensitive issues among teens, such as depression," the School Library Journal reported.

Workshops will also address building collections and programming that open the door for young people and adults to learn about teen-related issues and address their concerns. The annual conference runs the week of June 24 in Washington, D.C.

Labels: depression, librarians, prevention, suicide

With Right Approach, Doctors can Help Suicidal Teens

Doctors can help suicidal teenagers, but they have to use sensitive language to be effective, according to two new studies.

The first study from the University of Massachusetts Children's Medical Center looked at 66 children ages 13 to 18 years old and their parents. Most participants in the study underestimated the problem of teen suicide but all agreed that doctors could be the best source of help and advice. The study appears in the journal Pediatrics.

In the second study, Dr. Steven Vannoy of the University of California in Davis combed through the transcripts of 298 doctors' visits, and found that physicians asked their patients about suicide 91 times.

If a doctor was "clear, supportive, and sensitive," the patient was more likely to confide in him or her. "Some aspects of the physicians' discourse may inhibit patient disclosure," according to Dr. Vannoy's report in the Annals of Family Medicine. "A small portion of inquiries were not prefaced by context statement. Failing to create a context before the inquiry may catch patients off guard and inhibit subsequent disclosure."

Labels: prevention, suicide

Research Reveals Parents, Teens Have Trouble Identifying Suicide Warning Signs

In 2001, suicide was the 11th leading cause of death among teenagers. Today, it’s #3. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that suicide results in thousands of lives lost every year (4,500 people between the ages of 10 and 24).

According to a Jan. 12 Medical News Today article, researchers have discovered that much work remains in the effort to educate both parents and teens about warning signs that might indicate a young person is considering suicide:

In focus groups in Chicago and Kansas City, both teenagers and their parents correctly identified many of the known risk factors for suicide, including mental illness, alcohol and substance abuse, relational or social loss, and hopelessness.

However, study authors said it was concerning that some of the parents reported regular drug and alcohol use as being a normal part of adolescent development, rather than problem behavior.

Parents and teens suggested guns should be removed if an adolescent is known to be suicidal, but parents acknowledged they may not be able to identify a suicidal teen. Parents and teens didn't think suicide was a problem in their communities.

All groups were interested in learning how to identify and intervene with a suicidal adolescent.

Study authors conclude pediatricians should regularly screen all adolescents in their offices and encourage families to be open to discussing depression and suicide.

Labels: prevention, suicide, warning_signs

Antidepressants May Help Suicidal Teens in Hospital Psych Wards

If teenagers are admitted to a hospital psychiatric ward because of a suicide attempt or suicidal ideation, they are much less likely to be readmitted if his doctor prescribes antidepressant drugs.

Dr. Cynthia Fonanella of Ohio State University studied 318 teenagers admitted to three Maryland hospitals because of suicide problems.
One in four were prescribed three or more medications, and these teenagers were 2.6 times more likely to be readmitted to the hospital within 30 days.
However, this group also had the most severe problems. The group prescribed antidepressants improved their chances of not being readmitted by 85 percent.

The use of antidepressant drugs in adolescence has been under fire ever since the Federal Food and Drug Administration put warning labels on these drugs. The labels said that using antidepressants could actually increase the possibility of a teenager committing suicide.

There has been an increase in teenage suicides since the warning labels went into place.

The study appeared in the journal Annals of Pharmacotherapy.

Labels: antidepressants, medications, suicide

Expert Discusses Suicide Among Adolescents

The recent death of a 12-year-old Indiana boy prompted CBS Channel 2 (Chicago) reporter Suzanne Le Mignot to interview Stephanie Weber, the Executive Director of Suicide Prevention Services:

Weber said it's not unusual for a child that's 12 years old to take their own life.

"It is the second leading killer in the age group 12 to 24, which amazes a lot of people," she said.

Weber said there are a variety of things that are going on in a young person's life during that time.

"Developmentally and emotionally, there's a lot going on," she said. "Socially, there's a lot going on, but there's also a lot of pressure at school, there's pressure at home, bullying is on the increase. There's just so many factors that play into this."

Weber said that, at a young age, children can be very good actors. There are warning signs parents can look for in their children.

"Any sudden change in personality, withdrawing. Kids who want to sleep more. They're eating less. There's that whole affect about them that shows that they're sad. They're just pulling away," Weber said.

Labels: prevention, suicide

Sexting-Related Suicide Leads to Lawsuit

The parents of an 18-year-old girl who committed suicide are suing her boyfriend and her former high school for negligence.

Cynthia and Albert Logan allege that their daughter Jessica suffered severe emotional distress after her boyfriend, Ryan Salyers, circulated nude pictures of Jessica to a large number of students at Sycamore High School and Loveland High School in Ohio.

In July 2008, after attending the funeral of a friend who had committed suicide, Jessica returned home and hanged herself.

The Logans are asking for damages from Salyers, Sycamore High school, their city, the school district, and some of Salyers' friends.

“She was vivacious. She was fun. She was artistic. She was compassionate. She was a good kid,” Cynthia Logan said in a March 6 MSNBC article. She claims that after the pictures circulated, her daughter was constantly attacked, ridiculed, and tortured at school and began to skip classes. Jessica apparently sought help from a school counselor, but the teasing continued.

Sending nude and semi-nude pictures to classmates is fairly common among today's teenagers. According to a recent survey by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, almost 40 percent of teens have sent or posted sexually suggestive materials, and 48 percent report receiving them.

Labels: lawsuit, sexting, suicide

In Wake of Four Teen Suicides, Wisconsin Community Calls for Increased Awareness

In the past six months, four students in Kaukauna (Wisconsin) High School committed suicide. In response to this ongoing tragedy, parents and community leaders are calling for heightened awareness of suicide’s warning signs.

In the Nov. 11 edition of the Post-Crescent newspaper, J.E. Espino reported on the school’s efforts to raise awareness about teen suicide:

Because of the “domino effect” one suicide can have in a community, a growing chorus is calling for heightened awareness. Local suicide prevention advocates are forming coalitions. There is chatter at high schools, colleges and churches.

With suicide the third-leading cause of death among young people 15 to 19, the aim is to pierce the cloak of secrecy and stigma that surrounds it. …

“We want to have it in the forefront so people are talking about it,” said Mary Sullivan, a liaison for Community for Hope of the Fox Cities, a spin-off of the group in Oshkosh with the same name. The Fox Cities group is looking for volunteers and financial support to set up shop.

Labels: awareness, prevention, suicide

Subtle Signs Can Indicate Teen's Suicide Risk

“Why didn’t I see it coming?”

When someone commits suicide, loved ones often ask themselves why they didn’t notice the warning signs. In retrospect, it may be possible to point to indications that something wasn’t right. But in real time, suicide warning signs aren't always easy to spot.

In an article that was distributed by Massachusetts' Coulter Press, psychiatrist Philip Gottlieb advised parents, teachers and other concerned parties to be on the lookout for subtle signs that might indicate that a child is at increased risk of suicide:

“Look for standard signs of depression, changes in sleep patterns, appetite, not wanting to do things that formerly interested them, a general loss of interest," suggested Gottlieb, medical director of Clinton Hospital’s Geriatric Medical Psychiatry Unit.

Suicide is the third-leading cause of death among people 25 and younger. Most people think suicide would never happen to anyone they know, but if you suspect someone may be at risk, don’t hesitate to get them help.

Labels: depression, sleep problems, suicide

One in Four Suicides Involves Intoxication

Almost a quarter of all people who commit suicide were drunk when they took their lives, according to a new report from the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dr. Alex Crosby and his colleagues used data from 17 states that are enrolled in the National Violent Death Reporting System between 2005 through 2006, and found that 24 percent of suicides involved alcohol intoxication.

"The mixture of depression and alcohol abuse is highly volatile and potentially fatal," Dr. David Katz, Director of the Prevention Research Center at Yale University, said in a June 18 article by Steven Reinberg of HealthDay News. "Diligent, ongoing efforts to find and treat depression and to prevent excessive alcohol intake are needed so the two collide less often."

Other studies have established a strong connection between teen suicide and alcohol abuse. In February 2008, researchers with Georgia State University's Institute of Public Health reported that youth who begin drinking before age 13 are three times more likely to attempt suicide than are non-drinking peers.

Labels: alcohol_abuse, suicide

Suicide Risk Doubles Among Teens Whose Families Move Frequently

It's no secret that moving is as stressful (if not more so) for children as it is for parents. But a new study has found that it may be far more harmful that previously thought.

The degree to which frequent moves can inflict psychological damage on young people was the topic of a June 26 article by MSNBC.com contributor Linda Carroll:

Psychologists have known for years that moves can be distressing for kids. But a new study shows that the impact on some adolescents may be far more devastating than anyone thought. The study, published in the Archives of Psychiatry, found that kids aged 11 to 17 were twice as likely to attempt suicide if their families moved three or more times compared to those who had never moved.

And, if the family moved more than 10 times, the children were four times as likely to attempt suicide compared to those who had never moved.

For the new study, researchers looked at data from 4,160 Danish children who were brought to hospitals after attempting suicide, as well as 79 who had succeeded in their suicide attempts. These children, all between the ages of 11 and 17, were compared to 124,800 adolescents who had not made suicide attempts.

"Adolescence is an inherently turbulent time for children, and moves may be more traumatic in some cases," the study's lead author, Dr. Ping Qin of the University of Aarhus in Aarhus, Denmark, told MSNBC.

Labels: family, risky_behaviors, suicide

California School Experiences Wave of Teen Suicides

Parents, school administrators, and other concerned individuals are searching for answers in the wake of two teen suicides and a suicide attempt by a third, all of whom were students at Gunn High School in Palo Alto, Calif. A June 5 article by NBC Bay Area reporters Owen Thomas and George Kiriyama provided the following details:

A month ago, JP Blanchard, a junior at Gunn, walked in front of a Caltrain. This week, 17-year-old Sonya Raymakers also killed herself by crossing in front of a commuter train. She was due to graduate in two weeks. Her parents are holding a funeral service on Friday.

At 8:30 p.m. [June 4], the third Gunn student, who has not been identified, was caught by his mother attempting to cross the Caltrain tracks. ...

This latest suicide attempt took place even as parents and students attended a meeting at a community center in Palo Alto to discuss suicide and depression.

"It sets up a kind of pattern where somebody has been having thoughts about it might find it easier to do," said Dr. Bruce Bienenstock, a child psychiatrist. "I think it puts us all higher on alert to be sensitive to what's going on with them right now."

Teen suicide has been associated with a number of causes, including teen depression, anxiety, poor self-image, bullying, and drug and alcohol abuse.

Labels: suicide, teenagers

Canadian Reserves Experiencing Youth Suicide Wave

In recent months, three children in the Manitoba, Canada, area have committed suicide, and there is evidence that many more have tried to kill themselves. Government officials in the remote Indian reserve of Pukatawagan say more than two dozen other teens have committed suicide in the last year.

[Sandi] Rhodes [Pukatawagan Director of Education] along with Chief Arlen Dumas and the band council, wrote to Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and to Health Canada’s First Nation and Inuit Health Branch this month, begging for more access to long-term counseling, a suicide-prevention curriculum in schools, clinical experts, grief counselors, and training for teachers ... (Source: Winnipeg Free Press)

Federal and provincial governments in Canada had fast-tracked a suicide prevention program that included a healing center, but the program ended after two years, when funding ran out.

Teen suicide remains a problem in the United States as well as in Canada. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the third leading cause of death for young people between the ages of 15 and 24, and is the fourth leading cause of death for children between the ages of 10 and 14.

Labels: suicide, teen_suicide

Drinking, Depression, Raise Risk of Teen Suicide

Teens who drink when they are depressed are more likely to have suicidal thoughts, according to a study that was published in the Journal of Adolescent Health.

Dr. Elizabeth Schilling of the University of Connecticut Health Care Centerstudied 32,000 young people in grades three to 12. About 12 percent said they drank when they were depressed. Of this group, one in five had attempted suicide. "Drinking while down was associated with significantly greater risk of suicide attempts among those not reporting suicidal ideation in the past year," Dr. Schilling said.

With teen suicide rates remaining disturbingly high, experts advise parents to be on the lookout for any indications that their children are suffering from depression or are engaging in substance abuse as a means of dealing with stress and pressure.

Labels: depression, drinking, substance_abuse, suicide, teenagers

Grieving Father has Message for Parents

Two years ago, Troy Crites lost his 18-year-old daughter to suicide. Today, he shares his story, and an important message, with other parents:

"[Mr. Crites] says he regrets letting his troubled daughter quit counseling. 'I'd rather have a damaged relationship than a dead daughter,' he said. 'I just - you have to try to make sure that they're safe.'"

Joan Goodman, an adolescent psychologist, encourages parents to get professional help for teenagers who struggle with self-mutilation, addiction, or other disorders. With therapy and medication, she says, many teens can recover. Source: WJLA-TV (VA)

Labels: awareness, parents, suicide

Take Suicide Warning Signs Seriously

Patti Skelton-McGougan, executive director of Youth Eastside Services in East King County, Washington, is still haunted by a high school friend's suicide. Looking back, she says, she can see the warning signs that she was too naïve to recognize or act upon at the time - and she is urging others not to make the same mistake:

"Everybody - teens as well as adults - should be aware of and alert to the warning signs. Kids who are thinking about suicide will often talk to their friends before they talk to their parents or even a school counselor."

Be aware of sudden changes in mood, eating or sleeping patterns, or increases in the use of alcohol or other drugs. And don't be afraid to confront the person or talk to a parent or teacher. Source: Bellevue (WA) Reporter

Labels: suicide, warning_signs

Community Comes Together to Address Teen Suicide

Several teenage suicides in the past year have rattled the residents of Spring Lake, New Jersey. In response, the town held a special meeting early in January to talk about teen suicide, answer questions, and support those who had lost friends and family members.

"According to Dr. [Peter] Halas, girls think about and attempt suicide about twice as often as boys, and tend to attempt suicide by overdosing on drugs or cutting themselves. But boys die by suicide about four times as often as girls, mostly because they tend to use more lethal methods."

Also in attendance were members from the Traumatic Loss Coalition for Youth (TLC), which is dedicated to suicide prevention. Dozens of people attended the special meeting, which was hosted by Spring Lake Mayor Jennifer Naughton. Source: Star News (New Jersey)

Labels: community, suicide

Poor Teens More Likely to Commit Suicide

A study from Tufts University and the Universite de Montreal found that teens from poor neighborhoods are four times more likely to attempt suicide than are those from more affluent areas.

"We observed that community adversity could amplify a young person's vulnerability to consider suicide," wrote study author Eric LaCrosse.

The researchers also found other risk factors in poor teens, including hyperactivity, impulsivity, depression, substance abuse, family history of suicide, low levels of social support, and negative life events such as the death of a parent or a painful romantic break-up.

The research team surveyed 2779 teens in early adolescence and then again at ages 18 or 19 years old, asking them questions such as, "During the past year, did you seriously think about attempting suicide? If so, how many times did you attempt suicide in the past year?"

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people ages ten to 24 years old. According to guidelines from the Mayo Clinic, signs of suicide in teenagers are depression, low energy and motivation, anger or rage, oversensitivity to criticism, poor grades, decreased concentration, changes in sleep or eating habits, restlessness, talking about death, cessation of regular activities, and withdrawal from friends and family.

This study appeared in the journal Psychological Medicine.

Labels: depression, poverty, suicide

Desire to Escape can Lead to Suicide Attempts

For many teens who attempt suicide, dying seems like the only way out of a seemingly impossible situation, or away from extremely painful thoughts or feelings.

"A teen with a sufficient network of friends, family, religious organization, peer groups, or extracurricular activities may have an outlet to deal with their frustrations. But many teens don't believe that they have this type of support and report feeling disconnected and isolated from their loved ones. These teens can be at risk for suicide."

Suicide is the third-leading cause of death among youth aged 15 to 24, following accidents and homicide. Youth with psychological issues or a family history of psychological issues are believed to be at greatest risk, experts say.Source: Kauai Garden Island News

Labels: death, depression, suicide

Gay Teens at Higher Risk of Suicide

According to the National Youth Violence Prevention Resource Center, gay teens are at greater risk of committing suicide than are their heterosexual counterparts.

Local Suicide Specialist Kristi Haynes said, "They are not only dealing with the normal issues that teens are dealing with in general. Then, on top of that they are dealing with bullying in school, isolation when they come out, they're kicked out of their homes."

In response to this risk, the Vista Youth Center in Kennewick, Wash., held an educational program aimed at teaching gay youth how to recognize warning signs of suicide. In addition to a discussion period, the teens in attendance watched a movie called Trevor, about a 13-year-old boy who struggles with his sexuality and tries to commit suicide. About 12 teens attended the program. Source: KNDO-TV (WA)

Labels: gay, lesbian, suicide

Suicide Inspires New Bullying, Harassment Law in Florida

Members of the public were encouraged to voice their opinions at a recent public meeting about new bullying legislation in Florida. Named the Jeffrey Johnston Stand Up for All Students Act, the policy was passed earlier this year by the Florida legislature.

"Creator of the legislation, Cape Coral mother and teacher Debbie Johnston, spent the last three years lobbying for the act. She first proposed it after her son, Jeffery, committed suicide in 2005 following years of bullying and ridicule at the hands of other students."

Many Florida school districts already have anti-bullying policies, but this new act would require those policies to be updated. One of the changes enables witnesses to report incidents of bullying. The Act also includes policies for dealing with cyberbullying - a type of harassment that takes place online, through social networking sites and instant messaging services. Source: Cape Coral Daily Breeze

Labels: bullying, harassment, suicide

Numbers Decline, but Teen Suicide Rate Remains High

About 40 American teens end their lives every week, according to a study from Nationwide Children's Hospital in Ohio.

The suicide rate for children ages 10 to 19 had been declining steadily between 1996 and 2005, when it suddenly spiked 18 percent. The actual number of suicides declined from 1,983 in 2004 to 1,883 in 2005, but it should have been 600 fewer if the downward trend had continued.

Psychiatrists including Dr. David Fassler of the University of Vermont believe that the suicide rate correlates with teenagers' using fewer anti-depressant drugs.

The Nationwide study found no differences in suicide rates between boys and girls, or younger and older teens. All were found to be equally at risk.

Labels: mental_health, suicide

Native American Teens Struggle with Suicidal Thoughts

When Lucy was 14, whenever she felt overwhelmed by pressure or despair, she didn't turn to parents, school counselors or friends - she turned to blades or bottles of pills. Now 21, Lucy admits making at least seven suicide attempts.

"That's an attitude that doesn't surprise Tillie Black Bear, chairman of the Rosebud Suicide Task Force. She is convinced that it exists to a greater extent than many people on her reservation are willing to believe."

Children who grow up on reservations often deal with levels of alcoholism, poverty, and gangs that most kids don't ever experience. This makes them far more vulnerable to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, experts say. Source: Argus Leader (Sioux Fall, MD)

Labels: cutting, drinking, suicide

Spike in Teenage Suicides No Fluke

U.S. researchers have said that a recent spike in teenage suicides isn't an anomaly, and should be taken very seriously. The statement comes in the wake of a recent study that found that although suicide rates have declined, they remain dangerously high.

"Last year, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an 18 percent increase in suicide rates for Americans under age 19 in 2004... In 2004, they said there were 326 more suicides than expected and in 2005, there were 292 more suicides than expected."

The study says that "attention must now be directed toward understanding whether warning about suicide risks linked with antidepressant use caused fewer troubled teens to get treatment." Suicide is the third-biggest killer of children and young adults in the United States. Source: Reuters

Labels: mental_health, suicide, treatment_programs

College Students and Suicidal Thoughts

In a recent anonymous survey, more than 50 percent of college students admitted to having at least one episode of suicidal thinking.

"The majority of students described their typical episode of suicidal thinking as intense and brief, with more than half the episodes lasting one day or less. The researchers found that, for a variety of reasons, more than half of students who experienced a recent suicidal crisis did not seek professional help or tell anyone about their suicidal thoughts."

The authors of the study have suggested that a new model be developed for identifying and treating students who are suicidal. Their recommendation includes focusing on thoughts and behaviors, rather than waiting for students to be in crisis. Source: MediLexicon

Labels: college-students, mental_health, suicide

Potential Signs of Suicidal Thoughts

Suicide is the third-leading cause of death among 15- to 24-year-olds. Many who have lost a teenager to suicide say there were signs that, tragically, were overlooked or dismissed. Here are some signs to watch for:

"Impulsive and aggressive behavior, frequent expressions of rage, exposure to another's suicidal behavior... family instability...change in eating pattern... neglect of academic work..."

If these or other signs become apparent in a young person's life, take it seriously, watch them closely, and get them some help. Source: Bucks County Courier Times

Labels: suicide, warning_signs

Millions Available in Campus Suicide Prevention Grants

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is soliciting applications for grants to support on-campus suicide prevention programs. The department expects to have about $2.1 million to fund about 21 grants.

"The American College Health Association's 2006 National College Health Assessment found that nine percent of students enrolled in a higher education institution had seriously considered suicide within the past year, and that 1.3 percent actually attempted suicide."

Grant availability is contingent on fiscal year 2009 funding, and average annual awards will be up to $100,000 a year for up to three years. Grant eligibility is limited to public and private institutes of higher learning. Source: Medical News Today

Labels: grants, prevention, suicide

Student-helmed Show to Benefit International Organization

Emily is a high school senior at Wyoming Valley West. After she lost a friend to suicide earlier this year, the tragedy prompted her to hold a benefit concert to help support the non-profit organization To Write Love on Her Arms.

"To Write Love On Her Arms [is] an international organization that provides counseling and assistance to teenagers suffering with depression, addiction or self-mutilation issues."

The benefit was scheduled to be held at an area jazz café, and Emily said she hoped that at least 150 attendees would be on hand to support the bands and the organization. Source: Times Leader News

Labels: counseling, prevention, suicide

Kids Need Better Coping Skills

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has estimated that for every child ages 10-14 who commits suicide, 100 to 200 others attempt to kill themselves. The statistic is alarming; as alarming as the fact that suicide is the third leading cause of death in this age group.

"For a long time we've talked about the crucial hours between school dismissal and parents getting home from work - those minutes and hours when latch key kids are home alone. This time and place is the most common for suicides..."

Sudden changes in mood or habits are often signs that something is seriously wrong with a young person. If he isn't able to properly cope with what he's feeling, he may view suicide as his only way out. It's important for parents to know the warning signs, but equally important that they help their kids learn how to express their thoughts and emotions in healthy ways. Source: Salem (Ohio) News

Labels: coping_skills, risky_behaviors, suicide

Doctors Warn Parents about Teen Suicide Warning Signs

Teens that injure themselves, take life-endangering risks, or have explosive personalities are more likely to commit suicide, two psychiatrists warn parents.

Speaking at a conference on suicide this week, Dr. Barbara Stanley said that self-mutilation in any form can be a warning sign, whether it's a girl burning herself with a cigarette or a boy who carves a friend's initials in his arm.

"Once you start to hurt yourself," she said, "it is a closer step to do the next type of hurting."

She said that recklessness, such as walking on a steep rooftop, also could be a sign of suicide ideation.

Dr. Eric Fombonne, director of the McGill University Department of Psychiatry, said teens that are "easily irritated and explosive" need to be monitored, too.

Teen suicides are increasing, especially among girls aged 10 to 14 years old. Girls attempt suicide two to four times more often than boys; however, boys complete suicides five times as often as girls. Suicide attempts peak between 16 and 18 years old.

Labels: antidepressants, depression, suicide

Study Casts Doubt on Antidepressants

A study conducted through the University of Hull in the United Kingdom has found that anti-depression medication may only benefit people who are severely depressed and not people who have moderate to mild depression.

"The finding 'means that depressed people can improve without chemical treatments,' lead author Irving Kirsch said in a statement."

While that may be true, Kirsch and others warned that no one should suddenly stop taking a prescription medication. People who are mildly or moderately depressed should talk with their doctor about alternative treatment possibilities such as psychotherapy. Source: Canada.com.

Labels: antidepressants, medictions, suicide

Suicide's Stigma Hampers Prevention

Susan Wylie, counseling coordinator at the University of Alaska Southeast, wants to send a message to parents and educators: Break the stigma surrounding mental illness. One of the best ways to prevent teen suicide is by talking about it, but social stigmas often prevent that kind of open dialogue.

"Mental illness affects a majority of people who commit suicide, according to Suicide Awareness Voices of Education, a national group dedicated to suicide prevention and based in Bloomington, Minn. And one in five teens experience depression before becoming adults, Wylie said."

Know the warning signs, and don't be afraid to talk to a teenager that you think is exhibiting some of the warning signs. You may be the only person who gives him the opportunity to talk. Read more at JuneauEmpire.com.

Mental illness in teens is a real and serious issue facing many families. An adolescent residential treatment center can offer the therapy and counseling needed to help teenagers and their families. Youth Care is a licensed treatment center for teens in Utah.

Labels: prevention, suicide, treatment_programs

Teen Suicide Rates Increase Slightly

Although the rate of teen suicides is up, the actual number of teenagers who commit suicide remains small, according to Dr. Nancy Rappaport of Harvard Medical School.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among people ages 14 to 24. The rate for suicides was 6.7 per 100,000 in 2003 compared to 9.4 per 100,000 in 2007. The number of suicides tripled between the late 1960s to the late 1980s, but dropped 30% since the early 1990s. Many scientists believe that decrease was due to the use of anti-depressant drugs.

However, Dr. Rappaport, an expert on teen suicide, said there is no way to determine if teen suicides have increased because of "black box" warnings on drug labels mandated by the FDA in 2005.

The vast majority of teens who commit suicide are mentally ill. A 1987 study of 170 suicide victims found that 90% had mental disorders. Suicide is also associated with drug abuse. Teens most frequently commit suicide with guns, followed by drug overdoses and hangings.

If your child shows five of these symptoms, it is a good idea to take him to the doctor for an evaluation. Signs of suicidal ideation are excessive sleeping, irritability, depression, restlessness, lack of interest in friends and family, lack of interest in usual activities, loss of appetite, and a drop in school performance.

Your family doctor or therapist might recommend a residential treatment center for your teen. Island View is an adolescent treatment center that offers children a place to work through their emotions while earning school credits.

Labels: mental_health, residential_treatment_centers, suicide

SOS Program Has Positive Results

SOS (Signs of Suicide) is a teen suicide prevention program that was first introduced in the 2000-01 school year. The materials include a video, and printed materials including a self-screening survey in which students can ask to talk to an adult about either themselves or a friend who might be at risk of attempting suicide.

"Research reports in 2004 and 2007 found that suicide attempts were 40 percent less for students in the SOS high school program than for the control group. The results were similar across racial and socioeconomic groups. Because of such studies, SOS is listed on the National Registry of Effective Programs maintained by the US government's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration."

The program also teaches students to use the ACT method of "acknowledging" that a friend has a problem, "caring" by letting the friend know they want to help, and "telling" a trusted adult.

The Teen-Help-Directory offers help and information for teenagers and their parents. Find help for your teen before he or she turns to suicide.

Labels: education, http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif, prevention, suicide

Suicide Rates Drop During Holidays

The rate of suicide goes down during the holiday season, often by as much as 40%, according to research from the University of Oxford, London.

"Our findings are contrary to the popular view that Christmas is a time of stress and arguments," said Helen Bergman, one of the social scientists who combed through emergency room records of over 19,300 people.

The Oxford group found a decrease in rates of self-inflicted injuries on and into New Year regardless of age, family connections or social isolation.

This study appears in the journal Social Science and Medicine.

Labels: research, self-harm, suicide

Sleep Loss Linked to Suicidal Tendencies

Teens that don't get enough sleep on a regular basis are at greater risk of having suicidal thoughts and attempting suicide, according to recent studies. Dr. Zianchen Liu of Arizona State University's Prevention Research Center analyzed survey results from 1,362 junior and senior high school students. The surveys questioned the teens about their sleep patterns and their suicidal behavior.

"The students generally reported getting about 7.6 hours of sleep each night. And, study findings show, the less sleep the adolescents had, the more likely they were to report having attempted suicide. Those who slept less than eight hours each night were about three times more likely to attempt suicide than those who slept a minimum of nine hours."

Nightmares also increased the likelihood that teens would have suicidal thoughts - they were twice as likely to consider suicide than teens that didn't experience nightmares. Ideally, adolescents should get nine hours of sleep each night. Parents who know their teens aren't getting enough sleep should watch for signs of depression or anxiety. A parent that notices suicidal warning signs - like a teen giving away prized possessions - should contact a psychologist or psychiatrist right away.

TeenBoardingSchools.com offers help for parents of children who are spinning out of control. Find private boarding schools and programs for troubled teens and get your child the help they need now.

Labels: sleep, suicide, teens

"Huffing" Linked to Suicide In Juvenile Delinquents

A study of 723 teenagers in juvenile prisons found a significant link between suicide and the inhalation of vapors from household products.

Inhaling vapors or "huffing" substances such as nail polish remover, antifreeze, gasoline, lighter fluid and others was correlated with increased thoughts of suicide and suicide attempts.

The link was significant - 81% of the girls and 60% of the boys who "huffed" were also suicidal.

The researchers were unsure whether suicidal teens are more likely to "huff" or if that behavior caused suicidal ideation.

Researchers from the Universities of Pittsburgh, Denver and North Carolina collaborated on the study, which appears in the journal, Drug and Alcohol Dependence.

Teen suicide can be prevented. Learn how to help http://www.boardingschoolsinfo.com/teen-suicide.html.

Labels: delinquents, huffing, suicide

Program Could Help Prevent Teen Suicide

When Gary Parker started studying the behavioral patterns of teens with suicidal tendencies, he discovered something shocking: one-third of teens who commit suicide visit a doctor in the week before they die. Parker also found that many doctors and nurses miss the warning signs, which are evident if they know what to look for.

"A year later, a suicide prevention presentation...has made its way around the state [of Oklahoma] and overseas to China, reaching more than 2,000 people so far, and garnering Parker a national award from the medical clothing maker Cherokee."

The 30-minute presentation not only dispels some of the myths about teen suicide, but provides resources and a referral list for caregivers.

Labels: prevention, suicide, warning_signs

Suicide Rates among Teens Increases by More Than 8%

A study from the Center for Disease Control indicates that more teenagers, especially girls, are committing suicide.

The suicide rate among children and teenagers increased by 8% in 2004, the largest increase in fifteen years. Between 1990 and 2003, there was actually a 28% decline in rates.

The percentage of young girls taking their own lives increased the most. Among girls ages 10 to 14 years, the rate increased from 0.54 per 100,000 to 0.95 per 100,000. Among girls ages 15 to 19 years, the rate jumped from 2.66 to 3.52 per 100,000. Among boys ages 15 to 19 years, the rate increased 11.61 to 12.65 per 100,000.

Many experts were predicting an increase in teenage suicides because of black box warnings on antidepressant drugs. The increased rate of suicide coincides with the Food and Drug Administration's requirement that antidepressant prescription labels carry a warning that using the drugs can increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behaviors. Antidepressant prescriptions for patients under age 18 years fell by 10% in 2004.

Labels: antidepressants, medictions, suicide

Suicide Rate among American Girls Spikes

The latest numbers released by the Centers for Disease Control show a 67% increase in the rate of suicide among 10- to 14-year-old girls between 2003 and 2003. The rate among girls aged 15-19 rose 32 percent.

"Overall, there were 4,599 suicides among young people in 2004, making it the third-leading cause of death, surpassed only by car crashes and homicide... Males committed suicide far more often than females, accounting for about three-quarters of suicides in this age group."

Richard Lieberman, who coordinates the suicide prevention program for L.A. public schools, said that increased rates of depression may account for the suicide spike.

Youth Care offers programs for troubled teens at their therapeutic boarding school.

Labels: awareness, prevention, suicide

FDA Warning Labels May Increase Incidence of Suicide in Teenagers

Putting warning labels on anti-depressants may put more teenagers at risk for suicide, according to a new study by the University of South Florida and University of Illinois.

Professors Hendricks Brown and Robert Gibbons studied depressed teenagers who were taking different classes of medicines and those who were not taking any drugs. They also looked at the medical records of teenagers who had successfully committed suicide. They found that when a teenager began a drug regime, he or she had fewer attempts at suicide. They also found that very few of those who had successfully killed themselves were taking antidepressants at the time of their deaths.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death for teenagers. Last week the Center for Disease Control announced a spike in the number of teen suicides, particularly among girls.

Dr. Brown believes the increase in suicide may be related to warning labels newly mandated by the Federal Drug Administration. The labels warn that taking certain antidepressants may cause an increase in suicide ideation among young people.

"With the FDA warnings, there has been a rapid lowering of antidepressant prescriptions and a corresponding increase in youth suicides," he wrote. "We found similar results in the Netherlands once the warning was broadcast there as well."

This study appears in the September 2007 issue of the American Journal of Psychiatry.

If you're worried your child is thinking about suicide, then an adolescent residential treatment center that offers programs for troubled teens may help.

Labels: antidepressants, medictions, suicide

KidsPeace Responds to Suicide Rate Increase

In response to the Centers for Disease Control's shocking news on an 8% jump in the rate of teen suicide, the national children's crisis charity KidsPeace has issued a series of warning signs, potentially life-saving tips, and free resources to try and help prevent such unnecessary tragedies.

"There are a number of reasons why children, like adults, may find themselves thinking the unthinkable. At the core of all motivating factors lies a desperate need to cope with a situation that may seem beyond remedy."

The suicide rate for 10- to 14-year olds increased by 100 percent from 1980 to 1996 and is the third leading cause of death among 15- to 24-year olds.

Labels: crisis, prevention, suicide

Teen Suicide - a Horrific, Growing Trend

According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, suicide is the third-leading cause of death for people age 15- to 24-years old. Strong ties to family and friends can help protect most teens.

"'Early identification and access to help is the best way to reach out to children and adolescents at a very vulnerable time in their lives,' said Sally Fiehrer, director of the Butler County National Alliance on Mental Health."

Sudden withdrawal from friends, family and activities, neglect of personal appearance, and violent or rebellious behavior are just some of the warning signs. Read more at Journal-News.com.

Teenagers struggling with issues can find professional help and treatment at a residential treatment center like Island View. If you've been unable to find a treatment program for your teen becuase of a lack of proper diagnosis, then check out The Aspen Institute for Behavioral Assessment. The Institute offers all of the assessments necessary to gather and assemble a clear diagnostic picture and a treatment plan that will help get your teenager back on the right track.

Labels: prevention, risky_behaviors, suicide

Australian Parent Fears for Teens

Robert Gater's daughter Jodie committed suicide at the young age of 16. The bodies of her and her friend Stephanie Gestier were found in the Dandenong Rages of Australia this past Sunday. Gater says his daughter spent a lot of time online, and even posted a suicide message on MySpace. Adolescent psychologists warn parents to keep their kids from getting lost online.

"Don't let them disappear behind this emotional firewall called MSN,' Dr. [Michael] Carr-Gregg said. 'There are many factors that lead to suicide but parents should make sure they know what their kids are doing online.'"

The danger with kids spending a lot of time online is that troubled kids are able to find each other, connect, and can often feed off of each others negative and/or destructive emotions. Read more at TheAge.com.au.

Labels: myspace, online_safety, suicide

MySpace Joins Forces with Inspire Foundation

MySpace, the online social community that's wildly popular among adolescents, has joined together with the Inspire Foundation to raise awareness about youth suicide.

"Since Friday, the web community has featured banner advertisements linking to a site with information about issues including grief, depression, alcohol, drugs, and sexuality."

Inspire and MySpace have been working together for about 12 months. Both organizations are excited about the partnership and promise more opportunities for young people to reach and get help in the near future.

Read more at Inspire.org.au.

Labels: awareness, myspace, suicide

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