During the pandemic, millions of people have lost their jobs. With more and more businesses closing down, parents had no choice but to stay at home and watch their meager savings dwindle away.
Kids were forced to attend virtual classes. Many of them felt isolated, as they were prohibited from attending social events, school, or sporting and music events. As a result, anxiety, and depression have become rampant across the country.
Suicidal rates increase among young adults
As the pandemic continues into the holiday season, rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide continued to rise. In fact, the number of Americans reporting anxiety symptoms has tripled since last year.
According to a nationwide survey that was conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, depression and anxiety is already rolling the nation. In fact, more than 40% of the respondents struggled with anxiety, depression, or increased substance use. Even more alarming, one in four young adults struggled with suicidal thoughts since the coronavirus hit.
What’s alarming is, suicide rates among the younger population, aged 10 to 24, rose 57% since the previous years.
Suicide prevention in teens
As children grow into teenagers, it becomes more challenging for parents to know what they are feeling and thinking.
If you suspect that your teen is considering suicide, talk to them right away. Don’t dismiss it as acting out or looking for attention. You need to listen and acknowledge their pain. Let them know that you are there to offer support.
Remember, suicide is preventable. If you’re worried about your teen, talk to him or her and seek help right away.