Teens & Young Adults

Finding Your Way Through Teenage Turbulence

Being a teenager is not easy. It's a time of significant change, growth, and exploration. The pressures of school, social acceptance, and figuring out who you are can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you're feeling hopeless, or if you're considering suicide, we ask you to STAY and reach out for support.

Why STAY?

It may not feel like it right now, but these feelings will pass. But it’s super important that you decide to STAY and reach out for support. STAY is a declaration to yourself, to your future, and to those who care about you. It's about seeking help when things feel too hard to handle alone. It's a reminder that it's okay to ask for support, and that you don't have to face your struggles alone.
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Understanding the Challenges

We recognize that being a teenager can be tough. The pressures of academic performance, social acceptance, and the changes that come with growing up can sometimes lead to feelings of confusion, stress, self-doubt and everything being overwhelmed. It's important to remember that these feelings are common, and that help is available.
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You Are Not Alone

Remember, you are not alone. Many teenagers have faced similar struggles and have found ways to cope and thrive – but just like them, you might need help to get there. There are resources and communities available to support you.
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Reach Out for Help

If you're feeling hopeless, reach out for help. Start by calling 1‑800‑256­‑2522. This is the Behavioral Health Crisis Line, and they're available 24/7 to provide support. You can also reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or school counselor and be honest about how you are feeling: If you’ve thought about suicide, let them know.
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Remember: The journey to feeling better begins with deciding to STAY

STAY is a simple, powerful message. It's a request for you to stay with us, to stay in this world, and to stay hopeful in the face of life's challenges. It's a message of resilience and hope. So, if you're struggling, remember to STAY. Reach out for help. And know that there are people who care about you and want you to stay alive.

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Recognizing Warning Signs

If you observe one or more of these warning signs, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change, it's important to step in or speak up:

  • Talking about death or suicide
  • Seeking methods for self-harm, such as searching online or obtaining a weapon
  • Talking about feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live
  • Reckless behavior
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Increased alcohol or drug use
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Uncontrolled anger
  • Putting affairs in order or giving away possessions
  • Showing sudden mood changes
  • Withdrawing from social activities

Remember, these do not necessarily mean a person is thinking about suicide, but they should not be ignored. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to connect and offer help.

Additional Warning Signs for Teens & Young Adults

  • Sudden or increased reckless behavior
  • Sudden or increased alcohol or drug use
  • Declining school performance
  • Changes in eating and sleeping habits
  • Withdrawal from friends, family, and regular activities
  • Violent actions, rebellious behavior, or running away
  • Neglect of personal appearance
  • Significant personality change
  • Frequent complaints about physical symptoms, often related to emotions, such as stomachaches, headaches, fatigue, etc.
  • Loss of interest in hobbies and activities they used to enjoy
  • Frequent crying

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If you're concerned about a friend, listening, being there for them, and supporting them to get help can make all the difference. But if you think they may be seriously considering suicide, it's extremely important to reach out to a trusted adult for help. And if it's an emergency, call 911 right away.

Learn how to help

Resources

Reach out and find help.

See Helplines and Resources →

What to do

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Warning Signs

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Help for Myself

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Help for Someone Else

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Resources

If you're thinking about suicide, please stay and reach out for support.

Call now: 1-800-256-2522