Suicide among younger generation is increasing in recent years. Teens who are thrown towards suicide are under lot of stress, confusion, low self-esteem, pressure to avoid failure (especially in children appearing for exams) and others fears while growing up. Sometimes infatuation and violence may provoke a teen into committing suicide and violence to others.

Warning signs of a child who may try to commit suicide: -

• Teen having a low self esteem and self doubts

• Teen making statements like "I won’t be here to trouble you much longer"

• Puts all his work in order for e.g. cleans his room, gives away precious belongings etc.

• Sudden cheerfulness after a period of depression

• Teen having bizarre thoughts.

Teenagers prone to suicide are: -

1. Teens on drugs and alcohol abuse
2. Rebellious teens (running away from home, violent behavior)
3. Teens having marked depression
4. Teens with high family pressure to succeed.

Always take the statement made by the child of killing oneself seriously and seek evaluation from a doctor. With strong family support and professional treatment, teenagers who are suicidal can be turned to a more healthy way of development.

Last updated on 17-03-2001