These percentages are comparable to the numbers reported for adults. A family history of suicidal behavior is an additional risk factor. Alternatively, families can both exert a protective influence and also be the vehicle through which the treatment for the suicidal individual is delivered. In either situation, the family should be a part of the assessment of the suicidal teenager. A larger number of studies have focused on treating depression, the psychiatric diagnosis most commonly associated with suicidal behavior.
Cognitive therapy is an active, directive form of psychotherapy.
In addition to the basic elements common to all forms of psychotherapy, cognitive therapy incorporates structure, agenda setting, frequent feedback and summarization, skill teaching, and homework assignments. More rational and adaptive ways of thinking are explored. Coping skills, such as problem solving steps and social skills, are learned and practiced. Communication skills, such as active listening and assertiveness, are the focus in the initial stages of systemic-behavioral family therapy. Problem solving strategies, dealing with the daily conflicts between the teenager and the parents, are improved.