Youth Suicide Warnings...

It’s quite common for young people to go through the ups and downs of adolescence and to feel their emotional states intensely. So how do we determine what is within a normal range and when we should be concerned?
Warning signsResearch shows that there are some key warning signs to be aware of. Warning signs are similar to 'clues' or 'red flags'.

Some warning signs may be easier to detect, such as when a young person may express a wish to die.

Other signs are harder to uncover – in these cases, emotions and feelings may be hidden from family or friends. What’s important to keep in mind is that you are looking for dramatic changes in behaviour and mood over a relatively short period of time.

Take all warning signs seriously. If you feel someone is in immediate danger, call 000. Never leave a potentially suicidal young person alone. Stay until help arrives.
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Watch for dramatic changes in behaviours. Monitor changes, ask questions.

Suicide warning signs

• A sense of hopelessness or no hope for the future.
• Isolation or feeling alone – “No one understands me”.
• Aggressiveness and irritability – “Leave me alone”.
• Possessing lethal means – medication, weapons.
• Negative view of self – “I am worthless”.
• Drastic changes in mood and behaviour.
• Frequently talking about death – “If I died would you miss me?”.
• Self-harming behaviours like cutting.
• Engaging in 'risky' behaviours – “I’ll try anything, I’m not afraid to die". 1
• Making funeral arrangements.
• Giving things away (clothes, expensive gifts) – “When I am gone, I want you to have this”.
• Substance abuse.
• Feeling like a burden to others – “You would be better off without me”.
• Making suicide threats – “Sometimes I feel like I just want to die”.

​One way to monitor a young person’s behaviour is to listen to how they talk to their peers. Watch what they may be saying on online sites such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you suspect something is wrong, talk to the young person. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

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Article:  https://www.beyondblue.org.au/resources/family-and-friends/parents-and-guardians/family-guide-to-youth-suicide-prevention/youth-suicide-warning-signs?pgtrk=1&tos=25025