Q: Due to the recent teen suicides that occurred in Coachella Valley last school year, I want to take the opportunity to use today’s “Help My Kid” column to urge everyone to learn more about the warning signs of kids at risk.
A: Suicide among young people is on the rise and is becoming more common as life grows more complex. Youngsters who are most at risk for suicide are those who use alcohol, illegal drugs or have a psychiatric disorder. Suicidal youth are characterized by their ambivalence, expressed through feelings of wanting to die and live at the same time. This ambivalence is what makes suicide prevention possible. Warning signs include socially isolating oneself and looking, sounding, or experiencing feelings of helplessness and hopelessness about the future. People who consider suicide usually make their intentions known in advance. All threats must be taken seriously. Parents and school personnel have to be particularly observant of youth who may be more vulnerable because of their individual circumstances. By recognizing the warning signs, lives can be saved. Please visit the American Association of Suicidology’s website (www.suicidology.org). This organization is dedicated to the understanding and prevention of suicide.
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