Mr. A is a 17-year-old boy—bright, multi-talented, and full of potential. His parents, like many, had high hopes for his future, particularly for his education. They invested their dreams in his academic success, which in turn led to mounting expectations for Mr. A. While he had a passion for both academics and sports, his parents prioritized his studies, discouraging him from participating in athletic activities. Interestingly, he had once been a talented athlete during his early childhood.
However, from a young age, Mr. A had a limited social circle due to the strict parenting style imposed on him. He rarely had the chance to express his own feelings and desires, leading him to withdraw emotionally from his parents. Over time, this lack of open communication resulted in a significant emotional disconnect.
Mr. A recently completed his 12th grade with excellent marks and then sat for an entrance exam for his one and only career goal—a field that had been chosen for him by his parents. Since childhood, his parents had set rigid expectations that he would pursue this particular profession.
But when the exam results came in, Mr. A realized he had missed the opportunity to enter his preferred field that year. What followed was devastating. The weight of his parents’ disappointment and societal criticism triggered an overwhelming emotional response. He began experiencing deep sadness, withdrew from his family, and lost interest in activities he once enjoyed.
He felt utterly hopeless, telling himself, “There is no solution for my life… Things will never get better… There’s no point in trying anymore.”
At just 17 years old, Mr. A reached a point of suicidal crisis.
Understanding Teen Suicide: A Silent Crisis
Suicide is the intentional act of ending one’s own life, and suicidal behaviour among adolescents is an important global public-health concern.
Teenagers may experience intense emotional distress because of academic pressure, family expectations, relationship difficulties, social isolation, bullying, or other challenges. Recognising these difficulties early and creating opportunities for young people to speak openly can help connect them with appropriate support.
The World Health Organization’s guidance on adolescent mental health highlights the importance of protecting adolescents from adversity, promoting emotional and social skills, and ensuring access to appropriate mental-health support.
What Can We Do?
When a child or adolescent loses hope and experiences suicidal thoughts, it is important for parents, educators, and other trusted adults to respond with understanding and support.
1. Parenting Matters
Encouraging children to strive toward their goals is important, but it is equally crucial to foster a broad-minded approach.
Allow children to explore different opportunities and interests, even when their choices differ from your expectations.
2. Emotional Sensitivity
Teenagers may experience strong emotions while dealing with academic, social, family, or personal challenges.
It is important to think carefully before blaming or criticizing them. Your words have power.
Try to create an environment where children feel comfortable talking about disappointment, fear, failure, and other difficult emotions.
3. Respect Their Uniqueness
Every child is different.
Acknowledge their individual interests, strengths, personality, and values rather than imposing expectations on them.
Children may have different abilities and interests from what their parents initially imagined. Respecting these differences can help them develop confidence and a stronger sense of self.
4. Offer Unconditional Support
When a child or teenager is going through a difficult period, give them support and reassurance.
Let them know that their value does not depend only on academic results, career achievements, or other forms of success.
Make them feel that they are not alone.
5. Teach Coping Skills
It is important to equip children with the ability to handle criticism, failure, frustration, disappointment, and loss.
Learning emotional regulation, problem-solving, communication, and healthy coping strategies can help young people manage difficult situations.
When emotional difficulties become persistent or begin affecting daily life, mental-health support can help adolescents and families understand the concerns and identify appropriate support.
6. Recognize a Cry for Help
Changes in behaviour, withdrawal, hopelessness, loss of interest, or expressions of wanting life to end should be taken seriously.
Suicidal thoughts are not a sign of weakness. They are an indication that a young person may be experiencing significant distress and needs support.
Listen calmly, avoid judgment, and take concerns seriously. When there is an immediate risk of self-harm or suicide, seek emergency help and do not leave the young person alone.
7. Redefine Success
Life is not only about achieving academic, professional, or financial goals.
Encourage children to develop a broader understanding of success that includes physical health, emotional well-being, meaningful relationships, personal interests, and a sense of purpose.
Success should not come at the expense of mental health.
Supporting Teen Mental Health
A teenager’s emotional well-being is influenced by many factors, including family relationships, school experiences, friendships, social expectations, and personal challenges.
Parents can support teenagers by:
- Listening without immediately judging
- Encouraging open communication
- Spending meaningful time together
- Respecting their individuality
- Taking changes in behaviour seriously
- Helping them develop healthy coping skills
- Seeking professional support when necessary
In the end, Mr. A’s story is a reminder of how vulnerable young people can become when faced with intense expectations and emotional pressure.
As parents, educators, and members of society, it is our responsibility to nurture their emotional well-being and provide the love, support, and understanding they need to thrive—not just academically but holistically.
Let’s ensure that the future we build for our youth is one where they feel valued, supported, heard, and, most importantly, safe.