Adolescence can be the most precarious stage of life. During this critical period, teenagers have to deal with a vast array of new and often tumultuous experiences. These include personal relationships, peer pressure, decisions about the future, physiological and psychological developments. Teenagers who can’t deal with these profound changes often turn to alcohol and drugs. In many cases, these troubled teens decide to take their own lives.

In the United States, the numbers of suicides have dramatically increased in recent years. According to recent statistics, suicide is the third leading cause of death amongst 15-24 year olds, and the sixth leading cause of death for 5-to-14 year olds. It is worth noting that males are more likely to commit suicide than females.

An interesting question one must raise is why has the teen suicide rate increased dramatically in the past few years? For one, it is easier to obtain the paraphernalia needed to commit suicide. Boys often use guns to kill themselves; girls usually use less-violent means such as pills. Two, it is widely accepted that the pressures in the modern world are far greater than in any other era. The combination of peer pressure and physical, physiological, psychological, and sociological factors make it increasingly difficult for teenagers to function in an unstable environment. Three, the competition over good grades and college admission is fierce. This builds up internal pressure making the teenager feel alienated and suppressed. Finally, depression is a major contributing. Depression may result from several factors such as separation of parents, recent loss of a family member, personal relationships, or failure to live up to parent’s expectations.

There are many different warning signs or symptoms that can suggest a teen is suicidal: A marked change in eating or sleeping habits; Violent actions, recalcitrant behavior; or “running away;” Marked personality changes; Neglect of physical appearance; Loss of interest in pleasurable activities (mostly physical); Drug and alcohol use.

More subtle signs are often ignored because of their trite nature. When teens say things like “I’m feeling rotten inside,” they are usually not taken seriously because it is considered inconsequential. Often subtle verbal hints are given: “I won’t be a problem for you much longer.” or “Nothing matters.” Such thoughts are usually expressed in a joking manner.

One should realize that if a teenager or a child says, “I want to kill myself” or “I’m going to commit suicide,” these cries for help should be taken seriously. It is important to seek evaluation and therapy from a child psychiatrist or physician.

Troubled teens do not need to be lectured. What they need is a strong sense of reassurance. They need to discuss their emotions and overwhelming problems with professionals or parents. It must be a person who is willing to listen and displays a clear understanding of the problems surrounding the issue. All in all, there are no simple solutions to the problem of teen suicide.

Sometimes simply taking the time to talk to the ‘suicidal’ teenagers about their feelings or problems can help prevent the tragic incident from occurring.