Understanding Suicidal Thoughts in Adolescence and Young Adulthood 

A note before reading: This piece contains links to sources that may include sensitive content. We include these source links to provide context for our research. Our intention is to help increase suicide awareness, prevention and sensitivity, while also doing the most possible to be responsible and protective of our readers.

As a teenager or young adult, we’re asked to make big decisions about school, career and relationships at a time when our brain is still developing and our identity is still forming. Because of this, it can be a time when feelings of sadness, anxiety and even hopelessness can take over.

Today, a lot of young people are struggling. According to recent surveys, 31.9% of teens are estimated to have an anxiety disorder (National Institute of Mental Health), and 57% of high school girls and 29% of high school boys report feelings of sadness or hopelessness (American Psychological Association). Some feel unsure about who they are or where they’re going. This is especially true during times of change, like starting high school, heading off to college or beginning a first job.

On top of that, many young people feel alone. One in three young adults report feeling lonely, according to a recent study (American Psychological Association). Social media doesn’t help — seeing carefully curated versions of other people’s lives can leave us feeling like we’re the only one struggling.

Mental health challenges are common during adolescence and young adulthood. Studies show that three quarters of lifetime mental health conditions begin before the age of 24 (National Library of Medicine). This is not because something is wrong — it’s because this stage of life is a time of pressure, change and emotional vulnerability. Individuals at this age are navigating relationships, independence, and identity — often without a clear roadmap. 

The consequences are serious: approximately 20% of college students have seriously considered suicide and 9% have attempted it (Depression and Anxiety Journal). Many of those students don’t feel that they have anyone to talk to about their suicidal thoughts.

Thoughts of suicide are not a sign of weakness — they’re a sign that someone is feeling deeply overwhelmed and in need of support. If you or someone you know is feeling like that, the most important thing you can do is speak up. Talk to a friend, a trusted adult, a counselor, or call or text a suicide prevention hotline (e.g. 988). You don’t have to figure everything out alone.

It’s okay to be unsure about your future and to feel lost sometimes. It’s not okay to suffer in silence. Mental health is health and asking for help is a sign of strength.