Sign of depression: suicidal ideation

A child spends most of his time at school. A teacher can help identify signs of depression in a student. Research shows that out of a typical classroom size of 25, 5 students show significant challenges that impact their ability to learn, socialize and/or function in school. Number of teenagers diagnosed with depression are rising, research shows one out of 10 teenagers have major depressive disorder.

Depression can be mistaken for sadness and can be just seen as lack of motivation. But severe depression can manifest as suicidal ideation, meaning intentionally planning to take his or her own life.

Suicide ideation can be a symptom of an existing mental health problem or episode, mental distress, or sometimes a side effect of psychiatric (or other) medication. Some children can say why they feel suicidal, but in other instances there may not be a clear reason, or they may be unable to talk about what they are feeling or experiencing.

There is still stigma around talking about suicide which makes it even harder for someone experiencing these feelings to open up and feel understood. Asking someone if they feel suicidal or are planning to end their life may not feel like the right thing to do, but in fact professionals recommend asking direct questions about suicide.

Research has shown that speaking openly about suicide decreases the likelihood of the person acting on their feelings. Asking simple, direct questions, such as, “Are you having suicidal thoughts?” or Have you felt like you want to end your life?”, can encourage them to be honest about how they are feeling. Many people feel relieved and less isolated when they are asked.

Warning sign of depression.

Advice to teachers: listen and find out the issues

Some warning signs of depression to look for-

If the child shows these symptoms for weeks or months, talk to them about their problem and be willing to support them. You can talk to their parents or refer them to school counsellor

Seek help from professional

You can encourage parents to book an appointment with therapist and seek professional help if self-help is not working

Resources to look for-