Many people ask why teens are more susceptible to suicide. Dr. Thomas Pentz, a psychologist at Sheppard Pratt Hospital in Baltimore believes that he has a possible explanation. He stated, "They get locked in the present, and it's hard for them to imagine things will get better. It's hard for them to trust time" (Marbelle 3E). Many suicides are caused by some traumatic experience such as breaking up with a boy or girlfriend, not getting into a desired school, or losing an important sporting event. The stress related to these things may explain the increase in the suicide rate over the last 25 years (Elkind 111).

Circumstances that predispose a person to consider or commit suicide are known as risk factors. There are two types of risk factors: psychological and biological. Risk factors can range from childhood difficulties to personal problems to chemical imbalances (Dolce 2

Stress leading to suicidal thoughts can also come from trying to live up to another's expectations. In many cases a minor setback can seem humiliating. This can lead to an overwhelming feeling of depression and a new crisis can cause a sudden suicidal reaction (Dolce 30).

It is not only mental or emotional problems that drive people to suicide, but scientists have begun to explore possible physical causes. Recent studies have shown that a number of physical factors can increase a person's tendency to commit suicide. Studies at the University of Pittsburgh have uncovered physiological differences between teens that had planned or attempted suicide and their "normal" peers. The teens that had shown suicidal tendencies had much lower levels of growth hormone. Other studies have shown that people who use violent means to kill themselves have a much lower level of the neurotransmitter serotonin in their brain. Also, Dr. Lee Salk, a psychologist and professor at Cornell University Medical School in New York, Believes that traumatic or difficult birth experiences may put certain people at a much higher risk of suicide (Dolce 33). It is not only psychological but also physical factors that contribute to suicide.

Many warning signs are often exhibited before a person attempts suicide. Continual anger and irritability, complaints of boredom, and increased risk taking can stem from depression and accompany suicidal thoughts. Al

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