Identifying Teen Depression early Prevents Risk of Suicide

Depression is one of the most common and serious mental health problems faced by the young generation all over the world.

One out of every eight teens in the country is affected by depression. Depression is an outcome of chemical changes in the brain caused by stress or hormonal changes. Treating this condition early is crucial as untreated depression can lead to self-destructive behavior and suicide.

According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people aged between 15 and 24.

In most cases, parents fail to identify their child's mental status and take appropriate measures in time to avoid self injury or suicide.

To help parents identify their children's mental condition early and to prevent harm, a team of researchers from University of Cincinnati put forward some warning signs:

* Display changes in behavior - Sleeping problems, excessive sleeping, changes in school performance, showing lack of interest in their favorite activities, distributing some valuable possessions.

* Verbal Statements- Talking about dying or suicide more frequently through statements like "I want to die," "I don't want to be a burden anymore," or "my family would be better off without me."

* Stressful events- Teens going through parental divorce, breakup or loss of a loved one

Researchers Keith King and Rebecca Vidourek also found gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered teenagers more likely to commit suicide than others.

Concerned by the occurrence, they recommend parents to maintain a friendly and strong relationship with their children, making children more comfortable with sharing their feelings with parents.

"Research clearly indicates family connectedness helps to prevent teen suicide, even if teens are socially isolated from peers," the authors wrote in a statement.

"As research indicates, the key component to effective depression/suicide prevention is the development of positive social and emotional connections among teens and supportive adults. Thus, getting teens positively connected to positive people and positive situations should remain the goal."

Findings of the study have been published in the quarterly journal, The Prevention Researcher.