Understanding the Importance of Protective Factors in Reducing Suicide Risk for Teens
Protective factors are the conditions and experiences that help teens develop resilience and stay emotionally grounded even when faced with challenges. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), protective factors include things like positive social connections, community engagement, effective coping skills, and strong family support(CDC). Teens who experience these protective elements are less likely to engage in suicidal ideation or attempts, while those who feel isolated or disconnected are at a higher risk (AAP Publications).
The Hidden Dangers of Social Media: A Mom and Therapist's Guide to Protecting Our Kids' Mental Health
Recent studies confirm what I see in my practice. For instance, a 2023 study published in The Journal of Adolescence found that teens who spend more than three hours a day on social media are twice as likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. Even more alarming, these teens are at a significantly higher risk of developing suicidal thoughts. Another study from JAMA Network Open in 2022 showed that adolescents who are heavy social media users report feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness at much higher rates . The connection between social media and mental health is undeniable, and as parents, we need to be aware of it.
