RESOURCES
TEENAGE DEPRESSION & SUICIDE - The Signs
There are several behavioural indicators that can help parents or friends recognize the threat of suicide in a loved
one. Since mental and substance-related disorders so frequently accompany suicidal behaviour, many of the cues to be
looked for are symptoms associated with such disorders as depression, bipolar disorder (manic depression), anxiety disorders,
alcohol and drug use, disruptive behaviour disorders, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia.
Some common symptoms of these disorders include:
- Extreme personality changes
- Loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable
- Significant loss or gain in appetite
- Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or wanting to sleep all day
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Neglect of personal appearance or hygiene
- Sadness, irritability, or indifference
- Having trouble concentrating
- Extreme anxiety or panic
- Drug or alcohol use or abuse
- Aggressive, destructive, or defiant behaviour
- Poor school performance
- Hallucinations or unusual beliefs
Tragically, many of these signs go unrecognized. And while suffering from one of these symptoms certainly does not
necessarily mean that one is suicidal, it's always best to communicate openly with a loved one who has one or more of these
behaviours, especially if they are unusual for that person.
There are also some more obvious signs of the potential for committing suicide. Putting one's affairs in order, such as
giving or throwing away favourite belongings, is a strong clue. And it can't be stressed more strongly that any talk
of death or suicide should be taken seriously and paid close attention to.
|
