How Do I Deal with My Teen's Suicidal Thoughts?

Sometimes it can be terrifying to determine whether a teen will act on their suicidal thoughts. Rule number one when it comes to dealing with these thoughts is to take them seriously every single time even if you think they are just trying to get your attention. Whether these thoughts appear to be pretend or have some legitimacy with suicidal tendencies, the bottom line is that they are crying out for help one way or another and they need your guidance.

Talk to them.

Your teen may ignore you and not talk back, but the point is letting them know you are there. Planting the seeds to show them how much they have to live for can actually decrease their likelihood to follow through with their suicidal thoughts. According to the Kids Health Organization, talking to them is not entirely foolproof although keeping the communication lines open can allow them a better chance to eventually open up.

Get some help.

Find a mental health professional that can help them to process their feelings that go along with their suicidal thoughts. Therapists can help to decide how extensive a potentially suicidal teen's treatment should be. While they are getting help, it would be in your best interest to receive help for the situation you are in with your teen. Any help counts towards saving your teen's life.

Check their social media.

Teens who are suicidal can leave some clues as to where their head is at through their social media posts. Even if your teenager does not want to be your friend, you need to have access to their accounts to see what they are posting about. Many times, there may not be anything there to see, but just in case there is, you can notice it while it is happening instead of seeing after it is too late to do anything about it.

Safe proof your environment.

One thing you can do to protect them is to put anything they can harm themselves with out of their reach. Firearms, pills, knives, ropes, or anything that could cause serious body harm to them should be put away. Even if you do not think there is anything your teen can get their hands on, do some research to inform yourself on ways that teens could commit suicide. You must be an advocate for your teen's wellness and safety especially when you are concerned with their words, actions, and thoughts. Addressing the problem as soon as you detect that something is off could be the thing that keeps them from doing the unthinkable.

If you or an adolescent you know needs to get help for drug or alcohol abuse, Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center can give you the guidance that you deserve. Establishing a strong network of family and community can reinforce practices for living substance free.

Call us today to start living in your recovery: 662-598-4214

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