Having a teen that struggles with their sense of self or worth to the world around them is overwhelming. Oftentimes, suicidal ideation and self-harm can be an unconscious cry for help. Although you may feel helpless as you try and show your teen how worthy they are of this life, there are many steps you can take as a parent to help your teen work through these distressing emotions.
In order to help your teen, you must have appropriate knowledge of self-destructive behavior and suicide. The main underlying cause of self-destructive behavior, such as physical self-harm, is depression. Acts of self-harm can be a cry for help. They may also be attempts to cope with emotional pain and societal pressures, which are intense during the teenage years. Similarly, substance use can be identified as self-destructive behavior. Many teens may use alcohol and other drugs as an attempt to “escape” or numb distressing emotions. Often, substance use and self-injury alike can be habit-forming, which is why it is critical to address these behaviors as early as possible.
The following signs could be an indication that your teen is self-harming:
It is important to understand that many individuals that engage in self-destructive behavior do not experience suicidal ideation. Still, many do, so these warning signs must be taken seriously so your teen can get the help they need.
If your teen has a diagnosis of depression, you may be familiar with the warning signs of suicide. Some general risk factors and associated warning signs include:
None of these warning signs should ever be dismissed as “teenage angst” or “drama.” Do not be afraid to ask your teen if they have a plan to take their lives; not everyone who is planning suicide keeps it secret. Even if that’s not the case, this issue is important enough to risk being wrong about.
No parent wants to believe that their child is hurting enough to harm themselves on purpose. But understanding the issues that enable self-harm is critical for healing them heal.
Offering support over judgment is crucial. Feelings of shame can enable your teen's self-harming behavior. A therapist can help guide you in how to talk to your teen, but you may also want to ask your teen directly how you can help. You may be surprised by how they choose to voice their needs.
Other suggestions to help and encourage your teen include:
Self-harm and suicide ideation are issues that cannot be solved alone. In this situation, it’s urgent to seek professional help. If your child has a therapist, make sure they are aware of your concerns. If they don’t already see a therapist, you may want to seek out one who specializes in teen depression, anxiety, or substance abuse.
It’s possible that your teen may be hesitant to see a therapist due to an unfortunate stigma that accompanies therapy. However, having an unbiased third party to listen to them and validate their feelings – someone who isn’t mom or dad – can be immensely helpful. Unless your teen discloses a plan to harm themselves or others, everything they say will be kept in confidence.
It can be devastating for parents to learn that their teen is having suicidal ideation or engaging in self-destructive behavior. Clearfork Academy is a male-only teen treatment facility that understands the struggles of self-harm and suicidal ideation. Unfortunately, many of the teens we see for drug abuse started by looking for ways to cope with their depression. This doesn't have to happen to your child. The good news is that there are many treatment options for depressed teens, from therapies to antidepressants, to learning healthier coping mechanisms. We offer residential treatment programs, various forms of therapy, and outdoor activities to keep treatment lighthearted and exciting. We have helped many teens learn how to make healthier decisions and choose sobriety. To learn more about our treatment program options, call us today at (817) 259-2597 to speak with our knowledgeable and compassionate staff.
Originally from the Saginaw, Eagle Mountain area, Austin Davis earned a Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministry from Lee University in Cleveland, TN and a Master of Arts in Counseling from The Church of God Theological Seminary. He then went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor in the State of Texas.
Austin’s professional history includes both local church ministry and clinical counseling. At a young age, he began serving youth at the local church in various capacities which led to clinical training and education. Austin gained a vast knowledge of mental health disorders while working in state and public mental health hospitals. This is where he was exposed to almost every type of diagnosis and carries this experience into the daily treatment.
Austin’s longtime passion is Clearfork Academy, a christ-centered residential facility focused on mental health and substance abuse. He finds joy and fulfillment working with “difficult” clients that challenge his heart and clinical skill set. It is his hope and desire that each resident that passes through Clearfork Academy will be one step closer to their created design.
Austin’s greatest pleasures in life are being a husband to his wife, and a father to his growing children. He serves at his local church by playing guitar, speaking and helping with tech arts. Austin also enjoys being physically active, reading, woodworking, and music.