IDENTIFICATION OF VERBAL AND NON-VERBAL SIGNS OF SUICIDE TO DETECT SUICIDAL RISKS IN ADOLESCENTS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Suicide cases in adolescents is a serious problem. The adolescence phase is a transition and developing period that can affect emotions and mood. Before adolescents attempt suicide, it is known that there is an expression of verbal and non-verbal signs of suicide as signs and symptoms of suicide risk. Objective: This review aims to identify verbal and non-verbal signs of suicide to detect suicide risks in adolescents. The results are expected to be used as fundamental data to identify signs and symptoms of suicide risk. Methods: Literature review search was conducted in consultation with nursing librarians using the database from Science Direct, Biomed Central, Scopus, and PubMed. The keywords used were signs and symptoms of suicide risk, signs of suicide, and verbal and non-verbal communication of suicide. Results: Ten articles related to the keywords were found. Conclusion: The signs and symptoms of suicide signs were revealed verbally and non-verbally. The verbal signs were revealed through questions or communications that point to desperation and helplessness. Meanwhile, non-verbal signs of suicide were revealed through observed changes such as cognitive, attitude/affective, physiological, behavioral, and social changes. These signs can be an instrument or a tool to identify early and prevent the risk of suicidal behavior in adolescents.

Keywords: Suicide, adolescents, verbal and non-verbal