Connection and Belongingness are the keys to youth suicide prevention  

Suicide is one of the top causes of death among teens or youths. In the last twenty years, those rates have increased by 62%. It is a complex concern but it is preventable with the right approach and proper use of resources, in schools and the wider community. Suicide prevention training can play a big role in saving lives. Throughout any approach it is important to help teens feel connected and that they belong. Here are some FAQs about suicide and prevention in youths.

What should I do if I think someone I know is considering suicide?
Ask them. Be direct and do not try to avoid the language. Talking about it is not going to give them the idea, or make them more likely to do it. Asking them gets them to talk to you about it hopefully. At the least, you are showing you are someone they can talk to if they ever need to. Sharing their fears helps to diminish them and take away their power. It is an important step in youth suicide prevention. Practice first if you need to so you can get the words out. If they do respond with a yes, then express to them you are grateful they have given you their trust and that you are there for them. When people have suicidal thoughts they are good at telling themselves lies like people would be better off if they were gone. Show them and tell them that they belong.

What are some of the typical signs of a teen thinking about suicide?
Things to look for are changes in personality, behavior and their relationships. If the teen is usually positive and social but becomes sullen and withdrawn that is a possible warning sign. Giving away possessions, changes in their sleep and eating, having a lack of interest in their daily life and no interest in personal hygiene are also signs. Look at suicide prevention resources for help and more information.

Who is more at risk than others?
There are groups who are more at risk. Teens who identify as LGBTQ2SIA+ are over 4 times more at risk of suicide attempts. That lowers by a great deal if they have one or more supportive and accepting family member and friend. Rates are higher for groups of ethnic minorities and for those in families with lower incomes. Males are three times more likely to die by suicide. However, females are more likely to attempt suicide. That comes down to their preferred methods. Males choose ways that are more likely to be successful like firearms. Homes that have easy-to-access firearms are also where you can find teens more at risk.

What can parents do if they are struggling to get their teen into a therapist?
Youth suicide prevention requires access to proper healthcare including a therapist and currently, there is a severe shortage of experts. Even in places where that shortage is less of an issue some parents still find it hard to get the help they need. Consider talking to the school to see what they have access to, talk to telehealth providers and reach out to your insurance provider. Teens need to feel connected and that they belong so work on that while you are getting help.

Conclusion
The thing people need to be aware of too is that suicidal thoughts come in waves. One morning might be especially bad, but even that same day, later in the evening they might be a lot better. It does not mean they are no longer thinking about suicide, it just comes and goes in waves. You still need to access suicide prevention resources, remind them they belong and protect them to help them stay safe.