Question

A myth about adolescent suicide, including suicidal ideation and actual suicide attempts, is that it is “a cry for help.” Statistics show that suicide is the second leading cause of death in the age group 12-19 years following unintentional injuries (accidents), and four out of five adolescents committing suicide gave clear intentions. The fact that we will never know the true reason why an adolescent commits suicide there are multiple risk factors. Based on evidence-based literature, identify three risk factors for suicide health care providers should recognize while performing an adolescent health history, and why/how they make the adolescent at risk. How would you proceed with care and possibly a referral for this at-risk adolescent? 150 words

Answer 1

Suicide is recognised as the third leading cause of death among adolescents. The common risk factors are divided into two, demographic characteristics and behavioral and mental health risks. Demographic characteristics include gender (girls have high prevalence), low grades, low socioeconomic status, not living with one or both parents. The other group include depression,low sleep satisfaction, high stress, alcohol consumption,smog, sexual activity. In addition, anxiety, loneliness, being pullied, physically attacked remained risk factors for suicidal behaviour.The indicators of suicidal ideations are hopelessness, truancy, withdrawal from friends and family, exaggerated irritability, a previous suicidal attempt, extreme hostility and mood changes.

Primary care including interviewing the client or maintain a trusting supporting relationship. Which screens for depression. Can reffer the child to paediatric emergency department for the risk assessment. Patients with moderate to high risk should be referred for a mental health evaluation. Encourage them to remain involved in the management. It includes involuntary hospitalisation, medication for underlying psychiatric problems, group psychotherapy, out patient treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy.