Depression and Teen Suicide
According to the report on "Suicide and Suicide Attempts in Adolescents" of the American Academy of Pediatrics, depression is an "important suicide risk factor", hence it is greatly important that when teens start showing signs of depression, this should be evaluated and referred to immediately.
Warning signs that family members should look out for are:
New or more frequent thoughts of wanting to die
Self-destructive behavior
Signs of increased anxiety/panic/agitation, aggressiveness, impulsiveness, insomnia or irritability
New or more involuntary restlessness, such as pacing or fidgeting
Extreme degree of elation or energy
Fast, driven speech
New onset of unrealistic plans or goals
Intoxication, agitation, recent stressful life event and influence of the media are additional factors leading to teen suicide.