Teen Suicide Prevention: How To Spot Signs of Trouble

Suicide is sadly one of the leading causes of death among adolescents in the United States these days. For parents, teachers, and caregivers, the thought of a teenager struggling with suicidal thoughts is overwhelming. However, knowing the warning signs and taking preventive steps can make a life-saving difference. At Power of Hope in Danvers, MA, our adolescent therapy programs are designed to support teens and families navigating these challenges with compassion and clinical expertise. Here's what our team shares...

Understanding the Pressures & Risks

Adolescence is a time of rapid emotional, physical, and social change. Teens often face intense academic pressure, social media influence, peer relationships, and questions about their identity. These stressors can sometimes lead to feelings of hopelessness or despair. While not every teen who feels depressed is at risk of suicide, recognizing the signs is critical.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Parents and caregivers should look for these potential red flags:

• Withdrawal: Pulling away from friends, family, or favorite activities.
• Changes in mood: Extreme sadness, irritability, or sudden calm after a long period of distress.
• Changes in behavior: Decline in school performance, trouble sleeping, or risky behavior.
• Expressions of hopelessness: Saying things like “I don’t see the point” or “Everyone would be better off without me.”
• Talking about death: Writing, drawing, or joking excessively about death or suicide.
• Giving away belongings: A subtle sign that a teen may be preparing to leave.

Preventive Steps Parents Can Take

1. Open Communication – Encourage your teen to talk about feelings without judgment. Ask open-ended questions and listen actively.

2. Seek Professional Support – Adolescent therapy provides a safe space for teens to express emotions and learn coping strategies.

3. Monitor Online Activity – Teens often express distress on social media. Stay connected to their digital lives.

4. Create a Safety Plan – Remove access to harmful substances or objects and outline who your teen can call in a crisis.

5. Model Healthy Coping Skills – Demonstrate ways to manage stress, such as exercise, mindfulness, or journaling.

When to Seek Immediate Help

If your teen expresses suicidal thoughts or you see concerning behaviors, seek help immediately. Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or go to the nearest emergency room.

The Role of Adolescent Therapy

At Power of Hope, our therapists specialize in teen therapy and suicide prevention. Through counseling, family sessions, and coping skills training, we help teens build resilience and give families tools to support their child.

Remember: Early recognition and intervention save lives. No parent should face this challenge alone—help is available.

We believe every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive without the burden of addiction. Let’s give our teens the tools they need to build a healthier tomorrow.