Teen FAQ
For over 10 years, teens have been asking us questions on every topic imaginable. While we are no longer taking new questions, we have a wealth of information we would like to share with teenagers.
Questions about suicide? Call the NATIONAL SUICIDE HOTLINE 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433).
Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Suicide > Mom of suicide attempter
Posted on: 05/05/2010
Question
My 16-year-old daughter attempted suicide. She was put on breathing machine and resesitated after being flown to another hospital. We had no warning signs that I as an educated parent picked up on. She'd recently made college plans, finalized her dream of being a summer foreign exchange student, etc. We did not see this coming. When she was released after two days from a leading behavoral clinic, she was given no medication, no psychiatric referral. She is/was not a drug/alcohol abuser. We took her to our family doctor and she sees a counselor twice a week for 12 weeks. The counselor is GREAT, but I am greatly concerned that she is not seeing a doctor. Her oldest brother exhibited the same type behavior several years ago. He is good now. My family has these type issues so I just thought she should see a specialist. I am deeply concerned. Advice?
Answer
I understand your great concern about your daughter after such a life-threatening suicide attempt. One problem with adolescents is that they are so impulsive and the signs are difficult to see or they come up so suddenly. It is good she is seeing a counselor that you like. You can take her to a psychiatrist who specializes in adolescents and get another opinion. I would talk with her counselor and tell this person that you want a physician's evaluation and perhaps you can get a referral from the counselor. In light or your comments about this type of behavior being in your family I think it makes sense to get a physician's opinion and hopefully that will help you manage your anxiety.