Expert: How to get rid of suicidal thoughts among teens

There have been rising cases of suicide among teenagers and you would probably wonder what is contributing to this.

Psychologist Tina Vundi says as teens grow they encounter various challenges but this should create room for suicidal thoughts.

“Solving problems is part of growing up hence teenagers ought to equip themselves with social skills to manage disasters that will in turn enable them to manage life in the right way," Vundi says.

She continues to say that acting on suicide ideation thinking that through death you will be punishing the one who wronged you is completely wrong.

“Find someone you trust so that you can confide in them as they will help you overcome the challenges you are facing. It could be your sibling, teacher or a parent."

She also advises one to engage in activities like reading books and playing games to help the mind shift from suicidal thoughts.  

“Owning a mistake and looking for ways to correct it is also a plus in growth,” she says.

She says parents should also be on the lookout for statements made by teens when they talk to them or even when they(teens) comment on an issue.

 “When you hear them talking about death so much be inquisitive to know why and what is causing them to make such statements," Vundi says.

Vundi opines that childhood traumas might also be a contributing factor to your child's suicide ideations.

“Identify if there are any traumas in the child's life and solve them, they could be the ones that are leading them to contemplate suicide.”

She goes further to advise that if you realise there is a problem seek the help of a therapist as soon as possible.

“Don’t count the cost, seek a therapist immediately. This can be the lifesaving opportunity for your child.”

Parents have also been challenged to cultivate a culture of listening to their children

“Listen and watch carefully you are likely not to miss out.”

Vindu also notes that stress levels among teens are contributors to suicidal thoughts amongst the teens.

“Incompetence in academic work, being unable to negotiate social skills for example someone saying something hurtful, gossip by their peers are among some of the stress teenagers experience as they grow," Vundi says.

“As parents don’t assume that your child can easily navigate through all the issues as you can. Their mental capacity is not that strong to handle that.”