Depression is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life. Suicidal ideation (SI) is often called suicidal thoughts or ideas, is defined as a “broad term used to describe a range of contemplations, wishes, and preoccupations with death and suicide.” It is not uncommon for a teenager struggling with depression to also have thoughts of suicide and vice versa. It is imperative to be aware of common warning signs with which a teen suffering from depression and suicidal thoughts may present. Common examples of signs and symptoms that could be indicative of a teen struggling with depression could include, but are not limited to any combination of the following, provided by the American Psychiatric Association (APA):
Common warning signs that could be indicative of a teen struggling with thoughts of suicide could include but are not limited to the following examples:
The Mayo Clinic explains that there are tendencies among those at risk for suicide, including anger, irritability, loss of interest in activities, changes in academic performance, withdrawal, comments about death and dying, being worthless, or feeling depressed. Young people may have suicidal thoughts that can range from fleeting thoughts to planning out the way in which one wants to end his or her life.
The best way to help some struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts is to be aware of the risk factors, recognize warning signs, and provide them with ample, professional support as soon as possible. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) provides helpful suggestions to assist someone who may be at risk of experiencing suicide ideation:
There are also easily accessible suicide prevention resources (e.g., the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, the Suicide Prevention Resource Guide, etc.). Early intervention, family support, and professional assistance can be invaluable to one’s safety and recovery.
Every family in need of mental health treatment must select a program that will best suit the needs of their family. When one member of a family struggles, it impacts everyone in the family unit. To maximize the benefits of treatment we work closely with the entire family to ensure that everyone is receiving the support they need through these difficult times.
Seeking help is never easy, but you are not alone! If you or someone you know needs mental health treatment, we strongly encourage you to reach out for help as quickly as possible. It is not uncommon for many mental health difficulties to impact a person’s life, in the long term. Pursuing support at the beginning of one’s journey can put the individual in the best position to learn how to manage themselves in a healthy way so they can go on to live happy and fulfilling lives.
OUR KNOWLEDGEABLE ADMISSIONS TEAM CAN BE REACHED 24/7 AT INFO@PACIFICRTC.COM OR CALL: 800-531-5769
We are available to answer any questions you may have regarding mental health treatment and our residential program, anytime. Contact us today using the form to the right.
PTT provides treatment for the contemporary issues facing teenagers in today’s world utilizing a family focused and collaborative approach providing individualized care for teens and their families. Licensed by the State of California, Community Care Licensing Division #198209636
At a time when most residential programs are affiliated with large healthcare corporations or backed by private equity, Pacific Teen Treatment is proudly a private, family-owned operation.
