Suicide is a serious concern among adolescents; it is the third-leading cause of death for this age group, according to the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT). The organization adds that the highest rate of adolescent suicide was in 1989. Teenagers commit suicide when they see no way out of things, such as after an upsetting event. Suicide can also be the result of a psychological disorder, though genetics can also play a role.
Upsetting Situations
When faced with a devastating event, an adolescent may see suicide as his only escape. The National Alliance on Mental Illness notes that the suicide trigger for an adolescent may be a "major disappointment, rejection, failure or loss, such as breaking up with a girlfriend or boyfriend, failing a big exam or witnessing family turmoil." The Nemours Foundation adds that dealing with a history of abuse or a hostile environment because of sexuality can also be the teenager's "final straw." The ABCT notes that a teenager may see an event as more severe than an adult might.
Psychological Disorder
The NAMI states that 33 to 50 percent of teenagers who attempt suicide have a mental illness diagnosed by a doctor and only 15 percent of victims are in treatment. Depression and bipolar disorder, in which the patient has symptoms of depression and mania, can be the cause of suicide. A substance abuse problem can also contribute to suicide. The patient can feel hopeless, worthless or distressed. The psychological disorder can also skew the adolescent's view of how devastating an event is, thus increasing her likelihood of committing suicide if the disorder is not treated.
Genetics
Another factor that can increase a teenager's risk of committing suicide is genetics, according to the NAMI. A genetic link exists for the other causes of teenage suicide, such as mental illness and substance abuse; the Nemours Foundation adds that a person's risk increases if he has a family history of either depression or suicide. The adolescent may be influenced by a suicide of a family member.
