Teen Treatment Programs in California
Suicidal Ideation
Your teen’s life is precious, and getting the right support can make all the difference.
At Hillside, we provide expert, compassionate care to help teens overcome suicidal ideation and rediscover hope for the future.
As a parent, it can be terrifying to think about the possibility that your child may be struggling with thoughts of suicide. Teenagers go through a tumultuous period of emotional and physical change, and when they experience suicidal ideation, it can leave parents feeling helpless, confused, and overwhelmed. At Hillcrest Adolescent Treatment Center, we recognize the complexity of these struggles, and we’re committed to providing treatment for teen suicidal ideation that addresses the root causes, not just the symptoms.
A Hillcrest, our team of dedicated and compassionate professionals can help your child through this challenging time. Understanding the signs and knowing when to seek professional help are key steps in ensuring your child gets the support they need to heal and thrive.
Contact us today to learn more about our teen mental health treatment centers.
Adolescents & Suicidal Ideation
Suicidal ideation is disturbingly common among adolescents, with many teens grappling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide at some point in their lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 1 in 5 teens experience some form of suicidal ideation each year. These statistics highlight the importance of recognizing the early signs and taking action to address these concerns.
In fact, research shows that while many teens who have suicidal thoughts may not attempt suicide, those who do often experience ongoing struggles with mental health, behavioral issues, and family dynamics. Early intervention, through treatment for teen suicidal ideation, is critical in preventing these thoughts from escalating into action.
What is Suicidal Ideation?
Suicidal ideation refers to thoughts or fantasies about ending one’s own life. It’s important to understand that suicidal ideation can range from fleeting thoughts to more serious plans or intentions. These thoughts can occur as a result of overwhelming emotional pain, mental health conditions, or difficult life circumstances.
There are two primary types of suicidal ideation:
- Passive suicidal ideation – This involves thoughts of wishing to die, but without a specific plan or intent to act on those thoughts.
- Active suicidal ideation – This is when a person has a clear plan and may even be preparing to take action.
While suicidal ideation is often associated with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma, it can also be influenced by external factors such as bullying, peer pressure, family conflict, or the loss of a loved one.
Signs That Your Teen May Need Treatment
Recognizing the warning signs of suicidal ideation in your teen is crucial for early intervention. If your child exhibits any of the following signs, it may indicate that they are struggling with thoughts of suicide and may benefit from treatment for teen suicidal ideation:
- Sudden changes in behavior or mood, such as irritability, withdrawal, or anger
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities or social isolation
- Talking about feeling hopeless, worthless, or like a burden to others
- Increased substance abuse or risky behavior
- Expressing feelings of not belonging or feeling like life is not worth living
- Giving away prized possessions or saying goodbye to loved ones
If you notice these signs, it’s important to take them seriously and seek help from a mental health professional who specializes in adolescent care. At Hillcrest, we are standing by to help. Contact us today for more information on our unique and effective treatment program for teens struggling with suicidal ideation and other mental health concerns.
Suicide Statistics in Teens
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “Suicide was the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10-14 and 25-34, the third leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 15-24, and the fourth leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 35 and 44.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that adolescent mental and behavioral health continues to be a significant public health issue. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of poor mental health and suicide-related behaviors were alarmingly high, and these issues have only worsened, especially among certain youth groups, including female and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning (LGBQ+) students. In 2021, suicide was the third leading cause of death among U.S. high school students aged 14–18, with 1,952 deaths, resulting in a rate of 9.0 per 100,000 youths.
However, the number of youth who attempt suicide or experience suicidal thoughts far exceeds the number of actual deaths. According to the 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), approximately 30% of female high school students and 14.3% of male high school students reported seriously considering suicide within the 12 months prior to the survey.
Despite these statistics, there is hope. With the right support and treatment for teen suicidal ideation, many teens who struggle with suicidal thoughts can recover and go on to lead fulfilling, healthy lives.
Causes of Teen Suicide
The causes of suicidal ideation in teens are complex and often multifaceted. Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, can significantly contribute to the development of suicidal thoughts. Additionally, environmental factors such as trauma, bullying, and family dysfunction play a major role in shaping a teen’s emotional well-being.
Some of the most common contributing factors include:
- Mental health conditions: Depression, anxiety, and personality disorders can create emotional pain that leads to suicidal ideation.
- Trauma: Past abuse, neglect, or traumatic events can cause feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, which may trigger thoughts of suicide.
- Bullying: Emotional or physical bullying at school or within peer groups can leave lasting emotional scars.
- Family issues: Divorce, parental conflict, or emotional distance from caregivers can lead to feelings of isolation and rejection.
Understanding these causes can help parents better empathize with their child’s struggles and seek the right treatment for teen suicidal ideation at the appropriate time.
How You Can Help Your Teen With Suicidal Thoughts
As a parent, it’s natural to want to protect your child from harm. Here are some ways you can help your teen if they’re struggling with suicidal thoughts:
- Create an open, nonjudgmental space for communication – Let your teen know that they can talk to you without fear of punishment or judgment. Listening to them with empathy and understanding can help them feel heard and supported.
- Stay calm and supportive – It can be difficult to hear that your child is struggling with such intense emotions, but it’s important to remain calm and offer reassurance.
- Encourage professional help – Seeking professional help is one of the most important steps in treating suicidal ideation. Encourage your teen to speak with a therapist or counselor, and consider treatment for teen suicidal ideation at a specialized facility like Hillcrest Adolescent Treatment Center.
- Stay involved – Maintain open lines of communication with your teen’s healthcare providers to ensure they are receiving the care they need.
How to Tell if Your Teen Is Suicidal
It can be challenging to know whether your teen is having thoughts of suicide, especially if they are trying to hide their struggles. However, there are a few common warning signs you should be aware of:
- Talking about death, dying, or self-harm
- Giving away possessions or writing farewell letters
- Sudden, extreme changes in behavior or mood
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities
- A decline in academic performance or motivation
If you notice these signs, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional who can help assess your teen’s mental health and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Teen Suicidal Ideation Treatment At Hillcrest Adolescent
At Hillcrest Adolescent Treatment Center, we understand that treating teen suicidal ideation requires a comprehensive, compassionate approach. Our program is designed to address the unique needs of each teen, combining individualized therapy, family support, and life skills training. This holistic approach ensures that teens not only confront the underlying causes of their suicidal thoughts but also learn the coping strategies they need to regain control of their lives and improve their mental health.
If your teen is struggling with suicidal thoughts or behaviors, it’s important to take immediate action. You don’t have to face this challenge alone—our team is here to provide expert guidance, emotional support, and proven treatment to help your child navigate this difficult time. Reach out to Hillcrest Adolescent Treatment Center today to learn how our program can help your family find hope and healing.
Enroll Your Teen In Our Teen Therapy Program Today
You don’t have to face this journey alone. Hillcrest Adolescent Treatment Center is here to help your teen—and your family—find hope, healing, and a brighter future. As one of the top adolescent dual diagnosis treatment centers, we’re committed to providing exceptional care tailored to your child’s needs.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our programs. Let Hillcrest be your partner in recovery and your guide to a healthier tomorrow.