Causes of Up Swing in TeenAge Girls Suicides

There are certain factors or characteristics that definitely increase the risk for suicide. For example:

• history of previous suicide attempts,
• family history of suicide,
• history of depression and other mental illness,
• family dysfunction,
• social isolation,
• alcohol and drug use,
• stressful life events,
• hopelessness,
• access to methods
• exposure to the suicidal behaviors of others, and
• incarceration.

In the case of our youth, specifically, we know that there are certain things that are particularly significant for them. Relationship problems either with family members or with boyfriends and girlfriends are significant issues for them. Those are the kinds of things that on the basis of research, we know, are risk factors that need to be attended to in evaluating a risk for suicide with the individual teenager.

Warning signs that parents and teachers need to look for are:

• changes in eating and sleeping habits,
• withdrawal from friends, families, and regular activities,
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• increase or engaging in violent actions and rebellious behavior, including running away.
• drug and alcohol use,
• neglect of personal appearance,
• marked personality changes,
• persistent boredom, physical complaints and then loss of interest in pleasurable activities and other things that are associated with depression.

The information we do not have is what issues are currently facing younger girls, in particular, which contribute to their suicides. Has there been a change in the same period of time in terms of general stress levels or coping? What kind of models are being depicted or presented to these girls? Why have boys not shown an increase in suicides, only girls? Why hanging? Is it more accessible? NOTE: Current data is only looking at completed suicides, therefore, methods used in incomplete suicides is not a part of the picture. Is there a correlation with lack of antidepressants prescribed? We do know that in elderly people there are less suicides with antidepressant usage; perhaps the same protection is present with the very young too.

Many hypothesis can be generated, but presently, all are untested. Much more exploration needs to be done, and for the sake of our youth, done quickly.