For some teenagers, divorce, the formation of a new family with stepparents and stepsiblings, or moving to a new community can be very unsettling and can intensify self-doubts. Depression and suicidal feelings are treatable mental disorders. The child or adolescent needs to have his or her illness recognized and diagnosed, and appropriate treatment plans developed. When parents are in doubt whether their child has a serious problem, a psychiatric examination can be very helpful. Many of the symptoms of suicidal feelings are similar to those of depression.
People often feel uncomfortable talking about death.
However, asking the child or adolescent whether he or she is depressed or thinking about suicide can be helpful. If one or more of these signs occurs, parents need to talk to their child about their concerns and seek professional help when the concerns persist. With support from family and professional treatment, children and teenagers who are suicidal can heal and return to a healthier path of development. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry represents over 6,900 child and adolescent psychiatrists with at least five years of additional training beyond medical school in adult, child, and adolescent psychiatry.