Question

Discuss the following two (2) specific areas that a social worker assesses and provide at least 4 (four) examples for each

1) Suicide Risk Symptoms in Adults

2) Suicide Risk Symptoms in Children and Adolescents-

Answer 1

Thought of suicide is not a mental illness but a symptom of much other psychological illness such as depression, Traumatic stress disorders, Schizophrenia etc.

The symptoms for suicide attempt or having a suicide thought differs from adults to children and adolescent.

The most important symptoms that is shown in adults are,

a. Hopelessness: Whatever activities they do they will have a sense of hopelessness about their future. If the person is a working then he may always show symptoms with a negative expectation on the professional growth aspect.

b. Excessive sadness & unexpected mood swings: The person will always prefer to be alone and will having a sad face even though nothing happened for such emotions. Sudden change in the emotions is also seen in such persons. For example the person may be showing happiness for some time and suddenly sits alone and sad.

c. Increased use of alcoholism and drugs: The person may suddenly start the habit of alcoholism and drug abuse and the usage will be in an excessive manner which really shows that he has no value for his life.

d. Social withdrawal or social distancing: The person would have been well socialized but all of a sudden hesitates to go out or to connect to the friends and relatives. They will also show reluctance even if others come to speak or socialize with them.

The Symptoms may be slightly different in children and adolescents,

The main reasons for suicide attempts in children and teenagers are due to the trouble to cope up the stress in school or some other situations. Dealing with love failures, rejection from the parents or even punishments which they feel is higher than the level they can cope up with.

The main symptoms which children or even adolescent shows are mentioned below,

a. Talking or writing notes about their death or they are interested in death or always speaking about the death and having curiosity on death related subjects.

b. Doing risky and activities which can cases serious injuries or may be life threatening

c. Total change in the way of speaking and attitude. Showing arrogance or ignorance to parents and relatives as well as friends.

d. Loosing of interest in studies or loosing of concentration or unable to focus on any subjects showing a poor academic performance.