Teen suicide is heartbreaking, and it may be more common than many people realize. Teens often go through a lot more than they let on, and what might seem like a passing phase can feel overwhelming and permanent to them.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recorded that one in five high school students had seriously considered suicide in 2023. That’s not just a statistic. It’s a clear indication of how many young people struggle with their mental health in serious ways. Research shows that
- Suicide has now become one of the top causes of death among adolescents and younger adults in the U.S., and rates have climbed in the last decade.
- Alarmingly, even children as young as eight are increasingly at risk
- Suicide in preteens rose by more than 8% each year between 2008 and 2022
At Miramont Behavioral Health Hospital, we recognize how urgent and serious this issue is. That’s why we provide personalized care for teens, with programs that can offer both outpatient support and residential care when needed. You’re never alone when you reach out to us, and here’s what you can expect in the way of service:
- Inpatient psychiatric treatment for children ages 12-17
- Families who are supporting a suicidal child or young adult
- Young adults 18 and over
In this blog, we’ll explore the causes and warning signs of suicide and give you tips for responding to a teen who has opened up to you about their suicidal thoughts. Remember, you’re never alone. Miramont BH is here to help, and we encourage you to contact emergency services immediately if you suspect someone is suicidal and may have the ability to take their own life.
What Pushes a Teenager to Suicide?
Suicide doesn’t have one clear cause, but there are risk factors that might raise the likelihood.
- Teens who live with depression, other mental health disorders, or substance use disorder might be at higher risk.
- A history of suicide attempts, chronic pain, or a family history of suicide can also play a role.
- Exposure to violence, trauma, or even someone else’s suicide—whether in person or through the media—can make things worse.
- Access to firearms in the home, legal troubles, or being recently released from jail are other known risk factors.
At the same time, teens can face intense stress from things like bullying, harassment, discrimination, or feeling rejected in relationships. These life experiences, combined with existing mental health disorders or poor mental health generally, can create a deep sense of hopelessness. But it’s important to remember that most teens who face these struggles do not attempt suicide. Still, if a teen shows warning signs, they may need immediate help.
How to Respond to a Suicidal Teen
Hearing a teen talk about ending their life can be deeply saddening and scary. You might not know what to say, but being present and calm makes a difference.
When a teen opens up about suicidal thoughts, here’s what to do:
- Stay with them. Never leave them alone.
- Listen carefully and keep them talking.
- Show that you care and take their words seriously.
- Don’t promise to keep their suicidal thoughts a secret.
- Let them know you want to get help together, whether that’s calling a doctor, a crisis line, or a mental health center.
- If they resist getting help, tell them you still have to reach out because their safety comes first.
- Call 911 or a crisis hotline as soon as possible if they’re in immediate danger.
Overall, teens need a support network that starts with trusted adults stepping up to help.
Signs of Suicide to Watch Out For
Sometimes there are no signs at all, and that can leave you feeling helpless. If you’ve lost someone to suicide, please know it’s not your fault. Experts like Dr. Cha at Yale emphasize that no single factor or sign can predict suicide with certainty, and there’s still so much we don’t understand.
Still, certain warning signs might suggest that a teen is struggling:
- Expressing that they feel like a burden, admitting that they want to die, or carrying shame
- Expressing feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, or unbearable pain
- Making plans or searching for ways to end their life
- Withdrawing from friends or saying goodbye in unusual ways
- Acting recklessly or taking serious risks
- Giving away important belongings
- Showing extreme mood swings
- Sleeping or eating a lot more or much less
- Using drugs or alcohol more often
If you notice any of these behaviors, especially if they’re new or suddenly worse, act immediately. Reach out to a mental health professional, talk to someone at Miramont, or call for emergency help.
Get Support for Suicidal Thoughts in Middleton
You’re not alone, and there’s real help available. Whether you’re a teen who’s struggling or someone who’s worried about a loved one, Miramont Behavioral Health in Middleton and Waukesha is here for you. Contact us, connect with our team, and take the first step toward hope and healing.
