If you are a teen who is struggling with depression or another mental illness, you may have thoughts of taking your own life.Talking about death frequently, giving away your things, and formulating a plan to hurt yourself are some of the warning signs of suicide.Being bullied, struggling in school, sexuality issues, and dealing with conflicts at home are some of the situational signs.If you are a teen who is suicidal, you should seek help.You can use self-help strategies such as challenging negative thinking and engaging in activities that improve your mental health.
Step 1: You should tell someone you trust.
If you are willing to talk to someone, you can get help for suicidal thoughts.You need to reach out to an adult who can connect you with needed services even if you first tell a friend or peer.It's a good idea to tell a teacher, coach, school counselor, or family member.You could say, "I've been thinking of hurting myself lately, and I'm really scared."It's important to impress the person that your thoughts and feelings are serious.If someone doesn't help you take action, find someone else to confide in.Don't stop until you get the help you need.
Step 2: See your doctor.
The first step in treatment is usually seeing your family doctor or primary care physician.The doctor will likely ask a lot of questions about depression and suicide.The only way to get adequate treatment is to answer questions honestly.In the weeks or days leading up to this appointment, keep a log of your thoughts and feelings.Asking a friend or family member to accompany you will make you feel better.They can give the doctor information on how you have been doing.
Step 3: You can see a mental health professional.
Your doctor will most likely refer you to a mental health provider.Professionals with specialized experience detecting and treating mental disorders are usually the ones who do it.Your mental health provider may work with you and your parents to find the best course of treatment.If you are struggling with an underlying mental illness, you will have to undergo additional screening.
Step 4: You can learn about your treatment options.
Talk therapy and/or medications are possible treatment options for suicidal thoughts.One of the most effective talk therapy methods is cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps you identify and change negative thinking patterns that make you feel suicidal.antidepressants may be prescribed by your family doctor or a Psychiatrist.You should always follow your doctor's instructions when taking these medications.It can cause your suicidal thoughts to get worse.You may have to try several treatment approaches before you feel better.
Step 5: A safety plan can be created.
Your mental health provider will suggest that you complete a safety plan as part of your treatment.When you have suicidal thoughts, this is a plan of action you will take.You may also have your parents help you with this plan if you work with a therapist.You should include self-soothing strategies, reminders of why you want to live, family and friends, and a crisis hotline number in your safety plan.
Step 6: There is a crisis and you need immediate help.
If you have thoughts of hurting yourself, you should call the emergency services department.In the US, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at any time of the day or night.
Step 7: There are negative thinking traps.
The first thing you can do is bring awareness to your suicidal thoughts.Teens may be caught up in a cycle of negative thinking.Try to pay attention to what you are telling yourself when you feel low.To figure out what may have been affecting your mood, try to write down your thoughts so that you can look back on them.If you bring awareness to your thoughts, you can change them.
Step 8: Negative thought patterns should be challenged.
Catastrophizing, using all-or-nothing thinking, and self-loathing are some of the different types of negative thought patterns.You need to remember that suicide is a permanent decision.When you are caught up in negative thinking traps, you may not realize.It is possible to see your problems in a different light.Try to come up with healthy solutions.Reach out to a friend or family member for help if you can't do it on your own.Depression may be keeping you from doing this.You can make a list of your concerns.Is there a better way to address this problem than by saying "I didn't get into the college of my choice, so I will never become successful?"It is possible to reapply next year.You could apply to a lesser college, maintain good grades, and transfer at a later date.
Step 9: You should distract yourself.
It is difficult to work through negative thought patterns.If you find a distraction that makes you feel good, you will feel better.It's a good idea to go for a walk with your dog, call a friend, or watch a funny movie.Do not use alcohol or drugs to numb your feelings.Substance abuse will only make things worse.
Step 10: Stay in touch with your loved ones.
Spending time with people who love you is the most effective way to deal with suicidal thoughts.They can help you stay positive and distract you from negative thoughts.Resist the urge to be away from your family and friends.Let these people be with you.It's okay to take some time to recover after socializing.Allow yourself to have this time if you find that you need some alone time after being around people all day.
Step 11: A healthy sleep schedule is important.
Teens need a lot of sleep.Negative thoughts and worries can grow when you don't sleep.Try to get at least nine to ten hours of sleep each night.If this is hard for you, then you should look at your schedule to find activities that will give you more time to sleep.Shutting off your screen at least an hour before bed will help you sleep better.Take a warm bath, listen to calming music, perform a self-massage, and do some light reading.If you have trouble sleeping, see a doctor.They might suggest that you take a sleep aid to get the rest you need.
Step 12: Stay active in extracurricular activities.
Staying involved in school activities can help boost your moods.The added benefit of participating in sports is that it will improve your outlook on life.Look into other physical activities if you don't enjoy sports.
Step 13: Practice self-care by notplugging.
Staring at a screen for a long time won't make you feel better.Negative media and social media can make you more depressed.You can choose to disengage and engage in positive distraction.It is possible to self-care by lighting a scented candle, watching a favorite movie, or planning a sleepover.Do things that help you with your mental health.