Teenagers and Suicide

This article deals with youth suicide, the 2nd leading cause of death among teenagers, after accidents. Girls make more attempts at suicide but boys complete suicide more often because they use more violent means. Certain signs that an adolescent needs help include withdrawal, a decline in grades, persistent irritability, increased drug & alcohol use, despondency, & giving away favourite possessions. Suggestions for parents in how to deal with their depressed child are offered. (BW)