teenage suicide - the warning signs Dental Insurance Plans

The Warning Signs of Teenage Suicide

(HealthNewsDigest.com)-Every day, 14 teenagers in the United States take their own lives. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 20 percent of all middle school and high school students have considered suicide. These statistics are alarming from every angle. "Suicide is the third-leading cause of death for people between the ages of 15 and 24, yet only a small percentage of young people who have suicidal thoughts get medical attention," says Alec L. Miller, PsyD, director of the Adolescent Depression and Suicide Program at New York City's Montefiore Medical Center.

Speaking on the Emmy-nominated television show "Keeping Kids Healthy," broadcast from the lobby of The Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Dr. Miller said there are a number of stresses that lead teenagers to the brink of suicide, and there are warning signs that parents should watch for.

"The most common stresses are interpersonal conflicts, a school disciplinary crisis or an experience with a suicidal friend or family member," Dr. Miller said. "Things like bad grades, or the end of a romantic relationship, do not in themselves cause suicide. There usually is some predisposing condition like depression, substance abuse or conduct disorder in combination with a precipitating event."

According to Dr. Miller, while some suicide prevention methods are obvious-removing guns from the house and keeping prescription drugs safe, for example-others require more sensitivity and the willingness to confront a troubling situation head-on.

"I guess people would relate suicide to insanity," said Amanda Pellicier, a 19-year-old who tried to end her life several times before getting help. "To me, it was insane to go along for another minute in so much pain."

"Parents need to be direct and ask questions clearly," Dr. Miller said. "Be able to listen nonjudgmentally and accept what your child is saying to you. Offer the hope of alternatives, and don't 'dare' him to do it."

Other common warning signs to watch for are feelings of sadness or hopelessness, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and aggressive behavior or a suddenly elated mood. "Parents should not take one kind of behavior out of context," Dr. Miller said, "but neither should they assume that everything is fine with what might be a potentially suicidal child.

"If there is any doubt about a child's safety, don't hesitate to call 911 or take your child to the emergency room," said Dr. Miller.

Produced by Montefiore Medical Center in association with Thirteen/WNET New York, "Keeping Kids Healthy" is a groundbreaking weekly children's health television show that examines real-life issues that kids, teens and parents face. The show pairs parents and children who are actually "living" a topic with nationally recognized medical experts who offer practical advice and tips. Check with your local public television station for airdates and times.

www.HealthNewsDigest.com