A Guide to Recognizing and Responding to Depression and Suicidal Behavior in Teenagers

Pastor Wimpie Vernooy at Christian Family Centre (CFC)

How to Recognize and Respond to Depression & Suicidal Tendencies in Teenagers

Teenagers are navigating one of the most challenging phases of life. They’re figuring out who they are, dealing with school pressures, friendships, and often, the weight of unspoken expectations. While it’s normal for them to have ups and downs, sometimes those struggles go deeper. Depression and suicidal thoughts can creep in quietly, leaving parents, caregivers, and friends unsure of what’s happening—or how to help.

The good news? You don’t have to be a mental health expert to make a difference. Sometimes, your care and attention are all it takes to turn things around. Let’s talk about how to recognize the signs and respond with compassion.

Spotting the Signs of Depression

Teenagers might not always say, “I’m struggling.” Instead, they show it in ways that can be easy to overlook:

- They start pulling away. A once-outgoing teen might stop hanging out with friends or skip activities they used to love.

- They seem irritable or angry. Depression in teens often shows up as frustration or mood swings, not just sadness.

- They’re tired all the time or sleeping too much. Changes in sleep or eating habits can signal something deeper.

- School takes a hit. Falling grades or a lack of motivation can mean they’re overwhelmed. These changes might not seem like a big deal at first, but if they stick around for more than a couple of weeks, it’s worth paying closer attention.

Understanding Suicidal Tendencies

When a teen feels hopeless, they may think about ending their life. That thought is heartbreaking, but it’s also something you can help prevent. Some signs to watch for:

- They talk about death. Phrases like, “I wish I weren’t here” or “The world would be better without me” are cries for help.

- They start giving things away. A teen who’s planning to hurt themselves might give away favorite possessions as a way of saying goodbye.

- They seem overly calm after a tough time. Sometimes, this calmness comes after deciding on a plan.

It’s important to remember: teens don’t want to die. They want the pain to stop.

What You Can Do:

If you’re worried about a teenager in your life, here are some steps to take:

1. Talk to Them

Don’t wait for the “perfect moment.” Start with something simple like, “Hey, I’ve noticed you’ve been quiet lately. Do you want to talk about it?”

If you suspect they’re thinking about suicide, ask directly:

- “Are you feeling like life isn’t worth living?”

- “Have you thought about hurting yourself?”

Asking won’t put the idea in their head—it shows them you care enough to ask.

2. Listen Without Judgment

Teens need to feel heard, not fixed. Resist the urge to jump in with solutions right away. A simple, “I’m here for you, no matter what” goes a long way.

3. Get Help

Encourage them to talk to a counselor or therapist. If they’re hesitant, offer to go with them or help them find someone they trust.

4. Stay Close

Check in regularly. Spend time together, even if it’s just sitting in the same room. Your presence matters.

You’re Not Alone: Local Resources

- Lifeline/Childline Namibia:

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call the toll-free numbers: 106 or 116. Trained counselors are there to listen. Calls are free of charge (8h00 to 20h00)

- Care & Support Group:

Every Thursday, from 18:00 to 19:30, a Care & Support group for mental health and addictions meets at the CFC Training Centre in Windhoek. This is a safe space for anyone seeking help or support. Contact 085 88 000 88

-Social Media:

Follow Suicide prevention Namibia on our social media platforms for more resources.

A Final Word of Hope

As scary as depression or suicidal thoughts might seem, they don’t define the end of the story. With love, support, and timely intervention, teenagers can heal and grow into their full potential. If you notice a teen struggling, don’t brush it off or wait for them to come to you. Reach out. Be present. Show them they’re not alone. You could be the reason they choose to keep fighting. And that’s a gift beyond measure.