Most teens don't initially accept the idea that a person who participates in activities or behaviors that could cause their own or another's death can be suicidal unless they are 'planning' their death. In fact, it is not unusual for young people to acknowledge driving over 100 mph on city streets while intoxicated but not consider this suicidal or homicidal behavior. An estimated 100,000 to 200,000 suicide attempts were made by adolescents in 1995. Statistics indicate that girls display suicidal behavior more than boys, but that more boys kill themselves. Dr. Ware suggested that the first step is to identify the risk factors common to youth who die prematurely.
Suicide is the last stage of an isolation-withdrawal process that is detectable and preventable.
Know the warning signs and when to get a professional assessment. Learn who our children are, how they feel and what they think by being more involved in their lives. Improve and enhance adult supervision, socialization, and monitor the feelings, thoughts and behaviors of youth. Emphasize honest communication and sharing by youth. Dr. Ware suggested that parents should not necessarily expect their sons or daughters to appreciate and willingly accept parental supervision and wisdom during efforts at open communication.