Neurodivergence and Suicidality
Suicidality, suicidal thoughts, and suicidal ideation are not an uncommon experience for teens. This has to do with many different factors, including but not limited to the hormonal changes teens experience, the heightened emotions that come with being a teen, difficulty is navigating social structure and the lack of development in the prefrontal cortex, which helps us regulate emotions as well as thoughts and impulses. In neurodivergent teens, however, we see an even higher frequency of suicidality. There are multiple reasons for this increase in frequency. One of the most common reasons that neurodivergent teens struggle with suicidality with a higher frequency than neurotypical teens has to do with the common comorbidity of depression. Teens with neurodivergencies, particularly when undiagnosed or untreated, are much more likely to develop some form of depression. This can be a result of the chemical imbalances that pre-exist in their brains, but is also very commonly to do with the internal struggle they experience trying to complete tasks that may come easily to neurotypical people. This comparison is often quite unhealthy and can lead to a lot of negative self-talk, anxiety, self-esteem problems, and other depressive symptoms, which can all contribute to suicidality. Anxiety is comorbid in a similar way and due to similar reasons.
Understanding that suicidality is more common in teens with neurodiversity, it is important to be mindful of emotional or mood shifts, and be particularly receptive if a team reaches out saying that they're struggling. Additionally it is almost always beneficial for neurodivergent teens to experience some form of therapy and develop skills that can help them in the event that they do develop suicidality.
The treatment of suicidality in neurodivergent teens is not drastically different from their neurotypical counterparts. Neurodivergent teens respond very well to DBT, which is designed to address suicidality directly using skills. These skills are often concrete, making them easier to learn, and can be adapted easily for different ways of processing.
If you're concerned about your neurodivergent teen, please feel free to reach out to Mindful Healing.