Each year more than 5,000 U.S. teenagers commit suicide. The warning signs and risk factors associated with teen suicide include depression, previous suicide attempts, recent losses, frequent thoughts about death, and the use of drugs or alcohol. They may also give away favorite possessions or become suddenly cheerful after a long period of sadness. 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.
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.