“The human brain… is one of the most complicated material objects in the known universe. The number of possible active pathways of such a structure far exceeds the number of elementary particles in the known universe” - G.M. Edleman (Nobel Prize, 1972)

Suicide


Suicide is a tragic event that is a result (and cause) of unbearable pain to the victim, his or her family, and the community, and is the second leading cause of death among youth in Canada. Most young people who suicide suffer from a mental disorder - usually depression. One of the most effective ways to prevent suicide is to identify and treat young people who have depression.

Risk factors for Youth Suicide

  • A mental disorder (usually depression)
  • A previous suicide attempt
  • A family history of suicide
  • Drug or alcohol abuse
  • Trouble with the law or in school

 

Warning Signs


The following possible warning signs of suicide in young people are not predictive of suicide- in fact, most youth who show these signs do not commit suicide. If a parent observes one or more of the following (particularly if the young person is depressed), a professional evaluation should be strongly considered.

  • Hopelessness or despair
  • Withdrawal from family
  • Withdrawal from friends and usual social activities
  • Neglect of personal appearance
  • Persistent self-deprecating comments
  • Preoccupation with death or people who have died by suicide
  • Suicide or death as the theme of conversation, schoolwork or artwork
  • Giving away valued possessions

 

Where to Get Help


If a youth (or anyone else) you know speaks to you about committing suicide, makes threats to end their life, or attempts suicide they should be taken to the closest emergency medical service as soon as possible. Once there, it is critical that the health professional meeting with the youth obtains all the information needed to make a proper assessment of suicide risk. This may include asking about previous suicidal attempts or thinking, current or past mental illness, presence of medical illness , presence of psychosocial stressors, and assessment of the youth's coping capacity and problem solving skills.

If you, think that your child may be depressed and is having difficulties at home or school because of the depression, please see your family doctor or visit your local health care clinic as soon as possible. Don't wait until things are so bad that suicide seems to be a solution to problems.

Remember, there are many effective treatments that can help. Reaching out for that help is the first step on the road to the future. Visit our Suicide Prevention Resource section for more information.