While suicide might feel terrifying to talk about it’s an important conversation to have because it is the second most common cause of death among young people between the ages of 10-24. While no child is safe from all suicide risks, some children are more vulnerable to suicidal thoughts than others. This fact might stir fear at first, but it does bring some good news:
Raising your awareness to risk factors allows you to intervene should any of these signs arise.
Suicide Risk Factors
Family history –
Families with a history of suicide have an increased risk of suicide. This could be because of ongoing trauma associated with the previous loss, family turmoil or lack of support, mental health problems, and violence or abuse. Children in adoptive or foster families are also at a higher risk.
This also includes children with a history of attempted suicide.
Psychiatric illness and depression –
Children and teenagers with psychiatric illnesses, including depression, are at higher risk of suicide. Recent surveys indicate that as many as one in five teens suffers from clinical depression. Likewise, children who are bullied or choose to bully – whether in person or online – tend to have more suicidal thoughts.
Behavior Issues
Kids with a history of aggression, reckless behavior or who are quick to anger are at risk because of their destructive reactions. This risk might increase more if they have a history of abusing drugs or alcohol or choose to isolate themselves instead of joining social situations.
Abuse of Substances and Alcohol
Use of drugs or alcohol plays a part in 1 in 3 youth suicides, and can cause delusions and hallucinations leading to suicide or be a chosen method via overdose.
If you believe your child might be a danger to themselves, it’s important to get them help quickly. Currently, the Canadian Paediatric Society has several screening tools available for children ages seven and up. Seek care from a therapist who specializes in suicide and talk openly and honestly with your child. John Ackerman, PhD, clinical psychologist and suicide prevention coordinator for the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital explains, “For the young person, having this discussion can be incredibly relieving. It is a powerful opportunity to understand that being emotionally open, especially about thoughts of suicide, can lead to healing and connection rather than shame and isolation.”
