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Ignoring problems won't make them go away

There's a lot you can do as a parent to support your young person - see Preventing running away, but sometimes your love and support isn't enough - you may need some help. Signs that your child needs outside help include:

• Suicidal talk of any kind. A suicidal teenager may also give away valued possessions, make a will, talk about death or dying or say that his or her family would be better off without him or her.
• Recent changes in sleeping or eating habits, thinking patterns, personality, friendships, study habits, activities. A sudden unexplained end to a long depression often precedes a suicide attempt. Major weight loss can be a sign of bulimia or anorexia.
• A recent change in friends who you feel may be involved with drugs or alcohol may indicate that your child  is having other problems.
• Drug or alcohol use. You might notice: irrational or irresponsible behaviour, lying, secretiveness, severe mood swings, a sudden increase in accidents. A teen with a problem may have dilated pupils or wear sunglasses indoors or complain about not sleeping or feeling well. Valuables may disappear. You may find drug paraphernalia or alcohol containers around the house.
• Law breaking behaviour, even if the police and courts aren't involved. You might notice new possessions and money not accounted for.
• Poor self-image. Doubts are normal but persistent low self esteem is a problem.
• Serious depression. Listlessness, loneliness, withdrawal and difficulty making friends.
• Rebelliousness to the point of continual total defiance.
• Problems at school, including missing lessons or sudden drop in academic achievements.
• Fears or anxieties that interfere with everyday activities.

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