Introduction

What is Teen Suicide? Teen suicide is when a teenager resorts to ending his or her
own life due to experiencing overwhelming stress, pain and anxiety. According to
research, teen suicide is the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 15 to
24 and is currently on the rise at an extremely rapid rate!

There are many reasons that causes a teenager to commit suicide. But, one main
reason is that most of us are not aware about it and are oblivious to anything about this
tragic endemic! By changing the way we talk about suicide, we change the way we
think of it.

This is  the sole reason why I decided to write this book to tackle such a deep yet
relevant topic, to save lives by helping you understand about teen suicide in the
simplest form. If you happen to be a parent, I can ensure you that after reading this
book, you will be equipped and exposed on how to prevent teen suicide from
happening to your loved one, and Knowing the warnings of suicide and how to get
help can help save lives. 

In the next few chapters, readers will explore the following questions:

 What causes a teenager to commit suicide?

 Why do teenagers commit suicide?

 What are the Warning Signs of a suicidal teenager?

 How to help a suicidal teenager?

  How to prevent teen suicide from happening?

Every information in this book has been gathered from multiple and updated sources
and associated in the shortest and simplest way.

Chapter 1: Teenage Suicide and Statistics

Globally, teen suicide is a growing health concern. The World Health Organization
stated that suicide was the second leading cause of death among 15 to 24-year-olds in
2016. Between 2007 to 2018, the world experienced a significant increase of teenage
suicide rate by nearly 60%, from 6.0 to 9.7 per 100,000 population among those aged
10 to 24. Experts are unclear of the reasons for the drastic increase of teenage suicide,
however, some theories suggest that one of the reasons can be attributed to the
increase influence of social media.

In fact, the suicide rates of teenagers and young adults suicide surpassed the suicide
rates of adults. What is more horrifying is that teenagers and youths have died from
suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, stroke, pneumonia, influenza, and
chronic lung disease, combined! 

In 2019, a research discovered that 1 in 5 teenagers possessed suicidal thoughts, and 1

in 6 teenagers actually implemented plans to attempt suicide. In comparison between
genders, researchers discovered the suicide attempts of women is 3 folds higher
compared to males. However, fatal suicide among men is 4 folds higher compared to
that of women. This can be attributed to the fact that men usually opt for more lethal
methods such as the use of firearms.
 Most Common Methods of Suicide
  Firearm

 Hanging

 Jumping from extreme heights

 Poisoning

 Drowning / Suffocation 

 Bleeding to death (self cutting)

 Electric shock

 Drug/ Alcohol Abuse

Chapter 2: What Causes Teenagers to Attempt

Suicide?

It is important to bear in mind that it is never one’s desire to die without any viable
rhyme or reason. However, opting to end one’s life is perceived as an attempt to
permanently eliminate the problem.

While some may think that the teenage years are the happiest years of one’s life, it
may also be the most stressful period. This is the era teenagers experience crucial
changes, may physical, mental and emotional. Overwhelming feelings of stress, fear,
confusion and fear may cloud a teen’s problem-solving and decision-making ability.
Teenagers attempt to commit suicide because they feel trapped in distressing
situations that they feel have no solutions to. Hence, the decision to make the decision
to end their life. 

Suicidal teenagers are often diagnosed with mental health conditions by physicians. 
Mental illness can conquer and influence one’s thought process and behaviour.
Subsequently, teenagers struggle to cope with the stress they experience as a
teen.Among teenagers, suicide attempts are often impulsive. They are often associated
with feelings of self-doubt, rejection, peer pressure, anxiety, disappointment,
hopelessness, overwhelmedness and loss. They are unable to realize that they have a
chance to turn their life around and see that suicide is a permanent response, not a
solution, to a temporary problem. 

It is important to understand that it is rare or even impossible for teens to commit due
to a single event. For a teenager to be at the stage of wanting to committing suicide, he
or she must have encountered a series of pain and trauma to the point where it
becomes unbearable. The following scenario is an example. 

Let’s take James from high school, who is experiencing a tough life. You see, James
has been a depressed child ever since his mom died in an accident a few months ago.
Things have been tougher for him as he cannot concentrate in class causing him to
flunk his studies and fail his finals at school. Horribly saddened and disappointed, his
dream of graduating crashes. James also has a girlfriend named Jenny, who he usually
shares his troubles and feelings with. However, the worst has come when Jenny
decided to break up with James. With a heavy heart built on overwhelming depression
and anxiety, James goes home and takes his own life.

So the real question starts here, why are teenagers killing themselves even before their
life begins? What are the actual causes of teenage suicide? Definitely, we cannot
pinpoint the exact cause of suicide. But we can learn from the environmental factors
that contributes and drives the cause of suicide. The following is a walkthrough of the
most common causes of teenage suicide.

Environmental Cause of Youth Suicide

 1. Encounters with Bullying
Bullying is the most common causes of teenage suicide. Statistics have shown that at
least 50% of teenage suicide are caused by bullying. According to studies conducted
by Yale University, bully victims are between 2 to 9 times more likely to consider
suicide compared to non-victims. Being in a long-term bullying circumstance will
have an enduring negative impact on one’s mental health and well-being. Bullying
comes in many different forms be it physical, verbal, sexual, and emotional or
cyberbullying.

2. Peer Pressure
In secondary school, teenagers become more independent, spending more time outside
with friends than with parents, hence dealing with peer pressure, often on a regular
basis. Teenagers are persistently in search of their identity and yearning for a sense of
belonging in line with their constantly changing physique and mind. Many of these
teens will find themselves in a peer group, in which they share their same interests.
Among negative effects of peer pressure is they may start experimenting with bad
habits such as smoking, drinking, and engaging in drugs. Everyone feels pressure to fit
in with their social group, but for teenagers, this pressure to conform and receive
approval is especially acute. Secondary school is notorious for being filled with
different groups and cliques that often define themselves through certain behaviours
and by assigning social statuses to people. In order to fit in and be accepted into
groups, teens are often pressured to change things about themselves, or even pretend
to become someone different than they really are. The reputation and acceptance of
the people in their circle moulds their social identity which subsequently alters the
way a teenager identifies oneself. This pressure to behave and look in certain ways
can often lead to teenagers feeling confused with themselves. When peer pressure
dictates that they behave in certain ways which they are not comfortable with, this
causes teens to suffer from low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. In some cases
when these suffering intensifies, this drives them to suicide.

3. Parental Pressure
Parental pressures occur when parents put intense stress on their children and set high
expectations for them to succeed. Although set with good intentions, this does more
harm than good. The fear of not being able to live up to those expectations (academic,
sports, exams, careers) is taking a toll on teenagers' young minds. Every parent wants
the best for their child, however conforming to society’s pressure is not the way to go
in order for a child to excel. Parental pressure may be driving youngsters to despair
and turning them suicidal, felt psychiatrists. In order to attain their parent’s approval,
teenagers often work hard and tirelessly, but when their efforts are deemed
inadequate, they feel ashamed, judged, suffer from low self-esteem and depression. As
a teenager is going through a turmoil of emotions, they may be sensitive to harsh
criticism and often fail to handle emotional upheavals.

4. Conflicts
Being in an ongoing serious conflict with family, friends and community can cause
overwhelming frustration or hopelessness for a teenager. These conflicts include
violence, criticism, and abuse. Although conflicts are not solely the cause of suicide,
conflicts can result in tempestuous arguments, stirring hatred and condemnation,
change in relationships and would might be a factor to suicide later on along the line.
5. Relationships
Romantic relationships are very common among teenagers and, because of the
shortened duration, breakups are also common. Teenagers are constantly going
through a roller-coaster in processing emotions, therefore experiencing a breakup can
be extremely painful. Adverse symptoms of a break up include substance use,
sleeplessness, self-harm and suicidal tendencies. Following a romantic relationship
dissolution, the pain can be unbearable which may lead to depression. Irrational
decisions are made and sometimes resorting to suicide. Even if the ended relationship
is being handled at it’s best, many of these teenagers need a lot of time to recover
especially when it's their first love. 

Chapter 3: The High Risk Group

While all teenagers are at risk for suicide, statistics found out that there are several 
groups of teenagers that are at higher risk of ending their lives. These people are
called the high risk group. It is very important to take note of this so you can be
aware and informed of your child’s current situation on whether they need extra
supervision and support. It is rare for teens to just be in a particular high risk group,
with many combination of risk factors that contribute to deadlier suicide ideation.
  Mental Health Disorders 
Without a doubt, mental health disorders is the root to teenage suicide, as most people
who die from suicide are diagnosed with mental health disorders. The most common
forms of mental health include depression, anxiety disorders, behavioural disorders,
mood disorders, and psychotic disorders.

 LGTBQ Youth
Studies shows that the LGTBQ Youths (Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, Bisexual) are 2 to
6 times more incline to attempting suicide compared to general people of the same
age. This is because they face discrimination, harrasment and rejection from society
on a regular basis. At school, LGTBQ youths were bullied and perceived negatively
by their teachers and peers for their sexual orientation. Aside from schools, these teens
also start to experience strained relationships with their family. In some cases, being
disowned by their parents and kicked out of their homes. Facing all these is too much
for their younger selves to bear when what they really need is support and love.

 Previous Suicide Attempts

In a general population, a past suicide attempt is the obvious indicator to foresee
future suicide attempts. A British study also confirms that the high risk of suicide is
lifelong for those who attempted it once. Only time and support from friends and
families can help an individual to heal.

 Family History of Suicide

Although only a small percentage of families have history of suicide, the risk factors
of family members significantly increases when a family member committed suicide.
This stressful life event changes and triggers the family with the loss of a loved one.

 Easy Access to Weaponry

Firearms are responsible for being the main cause and risk-factors for teenage suicide
(generally age of 15 and above). Too often teenagers use guns belonging to their
parents, mainly because guns are quick, and that there is absolutely no chance of
survival from a gunshot to the head. Even if parents believe that their guns are being
“hidden” and “stored” from their child, studies show that teens will still be able to find
them or break into the storage. Parents also underestimated their child's ability to
handle a gun. And as said, the safest home of teens is a home without guns.

 Alcohol and Drug Abuse

The connection between substance abuse and teenage suicide remains utterly close. As
teenagers consume drugs and alcohol to ease their depression, giving them  that “pick
me up” or “feel good” feeling. Nonetheless, the toxins in these substances actually
produce the opposite effect, aggravating their depression. In fact, studies also found
out that substance abuse itself is part of, if not responsible for nearly 30% to 50% of
teenage suicide cases.

  Childhood Abuse
Child abuse causes harm and leaves a deep impact forever on the child’s psyche. The
definition of abuse is when one is being mistreated with cruelty or violence. There are
4 forms of child abuse, these includes physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse,
and child neglect. In regards to the connection with suicide, researchers have found
out that a person being abused during their childhood woul not commit suicide that
quickly, but the risks are greater as the child grows older and becomes an adult.

Chapter 4: Warning Signs

     
Suicidal teens will show some, less obvious signs of suicide. Suicide is preventable
when warning signs are detected and appropriated measures are taken.  As teen
suicide is complicated, discovering 1 or 2 signs does not really mean that one is
suicidal. If these signs emerge over a prolonged period of time with the emergence of
more signs, then this is a cry for help. It is extremely crucial to not dismiss them as a
call for attention. Regardless what the motives are, take all threats of suicide seriously
and help your child. The following is a list of possible warning signs for teenage
suicide. Whether you are a parent, teacher, friend or a close contact to someone who is
suicidal, knowing and looking out for these indications can help save their life.
 Talking about suicide. Examples include making simple statements like “I’m
going to kill myself", “I wish I were dead” or “I won’t be a problem to you any
longer”. Take these statements seriously even if said in a joking manner.

 Socially isolating and withdrawing from family and friends. For example,
avoiding family or social gatherings.

 Researching methods for suicide.

 Uncharacteristic mood swings (eg., sleeping too much or too little, constant
crying).

 Giving away valuable possessions without any logical explanation.

 Sudden drop in school performance.

 Risk taking behaviour (eg., driving recklessly)

 Depressed and anxious

 Showing rage or behaving hostile

 Talking about seeking revenge

 Visiting or calling people to say “Goodbye”

 Sudden disinterest in personal favourite activities

  Attempting self-harm (eg., cutting, burning)

 Perception of being a burden to family and friends.

Chapter 5: How to Help a Suicidal Teen?

If you suspect your teen of having suicidal tendencies, even if you think it is a bid for
attention, address the issue immediately. Sadly, many teenagers who complete suicide
every year often shocked family and friends say that they never imagined their
teenagers would do it. Calmly ask them about what they are going through and
understand their struggle. Do not dismiss their problems but reassure them they are
loved and supported. Remind them that whatever pain they are experiencing, that you
are there for them regardless of their problem. When talking and listening to your
child, always give your undivided attention and provide a listening ear when your teen
has something to say. 

 The following are some strategies to help a suicidal teen. The more you know, the
better you will be prepared for understanding on how to help your child and prevent
risks,

Ask Questions and Have Conversations

And no, talking to someone about suicide would not put them in danger of committing
suicide, instead it can help them to identify the problem and provide them emotional
support. Through conversation, you can encourage your teen to open up and share his
problems with you. When talking to your teen about suicide, keep an open mind and
do not hesitate to ask questions. Here are some suggestions on what to say to help a
suicidal teen.

 Be upfront and ask him questions (eg., “ Have you comtemplated suicide? If
you have, we can talk about it.”, “Have you thought of hurting yourself and
ending your life?”.)
  Ask what event triggered your teen to possess suicidal thoughts (eg., “ What
happened?”, “ How did it impact you?”, “When did it happen?”.)  You can also
be upfront and ask if they have any suicidal ideations.

 Offer help (eg., “What can I do to help you?”, What do you need and how can I
support in getting help?”, “I won’t judge, and I’ll never stop supporting you, no
matter challenged you face.”)
Give Them Hope and Reassurance
Help them understand that there are solutions to whatever they are grappling with.
Remind them that there are a lot people in this world who love and cherish them very
much. Family and friends connection can buffer your teenager against depression and
anxiety. Reassure them, to not give up on life and that there is always hope. These
conversations can help your child feel safe about opening up. 

 Promise you will always be there for them - and mean it.

 Put yourself in their shoes. Show them that you understand their feelings and
are concerned about them. Tell them that they are never alone and it is normal
for everyone to experience sadness and depression sometimes.

 Remind them of their dreams and ambitions. Motivate them to chase after their
dreams.

 Be direct, say “ I don’t want you to hurt yourself”.

 Tell them to not be so hard on themselves and  remind them that every
challenge is an opportunity to become stronger. 
What NEVER to Say to a Suicidal Teen
 “I don’t want to hear about it.”

 “It's only a small matter.”

 “If you commit suicide, you will go to hell.”

 “Commiting suicide is selfish.”

 “Everyone has problems.”

Listen- Even When Your Teenager is Not Talking
Teenagers with suicidal ideations may tip off their troubled state of mind through
actions and behaviours. Studies have have discoverd that a characteristic of families
affected by suicide is poor communication between parents and child. However, there
are usually more issues that build up simultaneously in a teeangers life at the time for
them to have suicidal ideations. Listen to your teen and loved ones without judgement,
and listen humbly and patiently. Do not provoke, judge or shut down when your teen
is talking.

Seek Professional Help Immediately

Today, there are many treatment options for individuals contemplating taking their
life. Studies have indicated that more 90% of people who have commited suicide have
treatable mental illnesses. Sometimes, the root cause may not be a mental illness,
emotional techniques and coping techniques are proven successful methods to aid
those in need. Teenagers who are suicidal need to consult a professional psychologist
and counselor immediately. The doctor will provide a clearer explanation of the
problem and will help counsel and guide your teen to access his emotions and
thoughts.

Further Actions
  Eliminate firearms from a household.

 Make safety a priority. (eg., Never leave your teen to dwell in a problem, and
keep them under your safe supervision.)

 Encourage health-promoting behaviours. Helping your teen to have a healthy

lifestyle can help him reduce stress and risky behaviours. Healthy lifestyles that
should be encouraged include exercising regularly and eating nutritious foods.

Chapter 6: Prevention

Much can be done to prevent to prevent suicide. It does not take a single person to
prevent someone from committing suicide,  it is a collective effort and requires the
help and support from family, friends, school, and the community. Here are the
measures you can do as a friend or parent to prevent someone your loved one from
attempting suicide.

Educate Yourself About Suicide

Reading this book is a good start to prevent your beloved teenager from taking their
life. Take the initiative to study and learn why and what causes teen to take his or her
young life. Many parents lose their teenager because the topic of suicied is taken
lightly and brushed off as a bid for attention, thus ignored from their parental radar. 
With the apprehension of suicide you can identify the risks (High Risked Groups), and
recognize and know how to react to the Warning Signs.

Know Your Facts

Not all information is accurate, and much misinformations is preventing teenagers
from getting the help they need. Here are the common myths and information about
teenage suicide that are often misunderstood. 

Myth: “Suicide is not a problem”

Fact: “ Suicide is huge problem, it is the third leading cause of death among teens
from age 
         15-24 years old. In fact, more teenagers have died from suicide than cancer”

Myth: “Talking to your teen about suicide may put him in higher risks”
Fact: “ Talking to your teen about suicide does not increase the risks in suicide. In
fact, having a 
          conversation about suicide creates an opportunity to discuss feelings together.
Hopefully it 
          will be reduced the intention in attempting suicide.”

Myth: “ People who are talking about suicide are just joking.”
Fact: “ Most teenagers spoke about their intentions before committing suicide. Even if
the statement is made jokingly, it should be taken very seriously.”

Myth: “People who are attempting suicide just wants attentions”

Fact: “ They aren’t attention seekers. They are crying for help because of the
unbearable pain they are facing”

Myth: “Only professionals can help a suicidal teenager.”

Fact: “Family and friends are first responders who identify the warning signs.”

Take Preventive Measures

 Be aware of your teenager’s social environment. Know who their friends,

teachers, and coaches are.

 Monitor your teenager’s online activities (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, text

messages, etc.) to safely keep an eye on uncertainties such as cyberbullying and
harassment. 
  Make your home a safe place. If your household stores firearms, remove them
away or keep it in a secured and locked space where your teenager does not
have access to.

 Limit the access to alcohol and prescription pills.

Protective Factors
 Develop good coping skills. Problem solving and critical thinking skills to cope
with stressful situations.

 Promote religious beliefs that discourages suicide and increase spiritually.

 Love and support from family.

 Encourage interests and participation in positive activities or hobbies such as

sports, art, reading, journaling, music, photography plus many more.

Conclusion
I applaud you for making it to the end of the book, you have already taken the very
first step to prevent teen suicide by gaining valuable knowledge inside. And as I said
before, Suicide is Preventable. Regardless of you being a parent, friend, or teacher, we
all play a major role in preventing the loss of our loved ones. 

 I shall leave you with a quote about how beautiful life is for you to end it. I'm
Kenneth and I wish you all the best in your life.
"Dear Suicidal Teens, Suicide is a permanent solution to a
temporary problem. Sincerely, you have so much to look
forward to in life"-Unkown