What do u all think

I was just wondering, suicide is becoming more and more of a common issue,
why do u think so many teens especially r resorting to it?

I believe our youths are growing up in a much more somber
world these days, and many have adopted a very dark attitude,
which can manifest in exhibiting "gothic" dress and behavior,
fascination with occult, etc.

The challenges they face are far greater than what we baby boomers
faced. And sadly, many lack caring parents or meaningful relationships
with adults who can guide and provide them with a positive influence.

Peer pressure is enormous, and difficult to avoid.

I recall listening to Black Sabbath music, the Doors, and other groups
which provoked somber thoughts and moods. But we didn't take it
as far as our youths do today.

Teenage years are years of searching and learning who we are. It is
natural to explore various modes of dress, hairstyles, music, etc.
When parents come down on it, it only makes them want it more.
We must remember to love the child, although we may condemn their behavior. Tolerance is important and being flexible and able to compromise helps to ease stressors which such extreme behavior may tend to create at home.

Many youths do not trust adults, and their confidentes fear they would betray their friends by disclosing their suicidal friend's thoughts and tendencies, but it is imperative they turn to school counselors, religious figures or neighbors--to prevent teen suicide.

One toll free phone number is:

Ph: 1-800-suicide

Here are some good links to explore:

In this link, be sure to read parts 1 - 7:

teenadvice.about.com...


www.cln.org...


www.nami.org...


www.healthyplace.com...


www.safeyouth.org...


www.psych.org...

I think it is important to mention here that parents MUST keep their guns under lock and key, as guns are a very common method in suicide attempts by youths.

Common signals hinting of suicidal tendencies may NOT be present.
I know this firsthand, as my son attempted suicide at the age of 15.
Being on medication may not prevent suicide. A combination of
psychotherapy, counseling, group therapy or other modalities is very
important.

I hope this helps.

I tend to think that we live in a society that's too constricting. People aren't happy because there's nothing much to look forward to. If you don't conform, you're usually an outcast, and that's not fun. I think, below the surface, people don't want to conform but do so because it's easier. Some can't force themselves (or they do, but not happily) and feel that the only way out is death.


[Edited on 12-11-2004 by djmcewen]

most those who do feel alone.

That's how I've always felt, jlc. I never quite fit in with any group. I could hang out with virtually anyone, but I have always felt apart from them in some way. Nothing's really changed after 34 years. There are very few people that I can really connect with but those people usually have the same feelings as me. And it takes a lot of trust to step forward and admit you have those feelings in order to find out that other people do, too.

Lots of these kids who commit suicide are on prescription medications that have been shown to increase suicidal thoughts, behavior, depression, etc...sure I don't think these medicines are the sole reason for suicide, but they also could be a large contributing factor, and I don't think kids should be taking any of these drugs just because they think they should be happier. Maybe they should also realize that they have very easy lives in the United States, and they could be much worse off than they are now.