Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in teens and young adults in the U.S. today. Suicide causes range from chronic depression to problems at school and certain medications that can cause thoughts of suicide. The teenage years are a very tumultuous time, and recent current events are putting additional stress on teens. If your teen is struggling with depression, a Washington adolescent health center can help your child manage their symptoms and lead a full and happy life.
At Imagine Seattle, we provide compassionate support for teen boys and girls between the ages of 12 and 17 who are struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts. Our behavioral specialists have experience working with all causes of suicide and can help your son or daughter process their feelings in a healthy manner. For more information about our Washington adolescent health center, call 888.346.0473 or fill out our online form today to speak with our knowledgeable staff.
Understanding Depression and Suicide
The recent COVID-19 pandemic left a lot of teens feeling isolated and missing out on important social development, leaving many feeling depressed and having thoughts of suicide. Depression is a mental health disorder that causes feelings of despair, loneliness, and constant fatigue. While most people may feel depressed for a few days or weeks, some patients can experience depression that lasts for several months to years. Over time, they can begin to have thoughts of suicide if they do not talk to someone about their feelings.
If you are worried your teen son or daughter may be suicidal, here are some warning signs of suicide and depression to look out for:
- Talking or writing about feeling sad or suicidal
- Begins cutting their arms or legs or other self-harming actions
- Talks about death like it is an escape
- Lack of interest in schoolwork or favorite activities
- Feelings of hopelessness and sadness
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Turning to drugs or alcohol
- Participating in life-threatening activities
At Imagine Seattle, we understand how depression and suicide are real concerns that teens struggle with daily. We provide compassionate outpatient treatment programs to benefit their mental health and give them a better outlook on life.
Common Suicide Causes for Teens
There are several causes of suicide that can affect teens at home and in school. On top of their changing bodies and emotions, outside factors such as current events and peer relationships can cause some teens to become depressed and start having suicidal thoughts. Open communication with your teen is important for spotting the warning signs of depression and suicide.
Some of the common suicide causes for teens include:
- Death of a parent, sibling, or close friend–the sudden loss of a loved one can be very devastating for children. They may not know how to process their feelings which can cause severe depression and suicide attempts.
- Bullying–if teens are bullied at school repeatedly, it can lead to depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts if they don’t get help. Bullying has a negative impact on both the aggressor and the person they bully.
- Gender confusion–teens who question their sexual identity, or don’t feel like they are in the right body, are at a high risk of depression and suicide. Therapists work with teens to help them understand their feelings and that it is OK to be different.
Imagine Seattle: Your Top Resource for Suicide and Depression Treatment for Teens
At Imagine Seattle, we help teen boys and girls who are struggling with depression and other mental health disorders through our outpatient treatment programs. Teens work with behavioral therapists in group and private therapy sessions to learn to process their feelings in a healthy manner. They develop new coping skills and learn to love themselves for who they are.
Call 888.346.0473 today to speak with one of our caring staff about helping your teen lead a healthy and happy life.