Two high-profile suicides and one dramatic attempt, all by adults in Auburn last month, have put depression and its life-threatening consequences on the public’s radar.

But children are also at risk, health experts say.

“Suicidal behavior, especially in teenagers, is epidemic,” said said Dr. James Margolis, a Sutter Health psychiatrist.

More than 1,900 people aged 10 to 19 took their own life in 2000, and suicide is the third-leading cause of death for that age group, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Experts say the tragedies can often be prevented, but that a lack of understanding persists.

“Many parents might not be aware of some of the early signs to watch for, particularly for their adolescent children,” said Richard Knecht, director of the Placer County Children’s System of Care.

Although some children vocalize suicidal thoughts – any expression of which must be taken seriously – many who are at risk keep it to themselves. That means parents, teachers and friends must look for secondary signs, Dr. Margolis said.

That could include changes in appetite or sleeping patterns; the dropping of longtime friendships; or changes in grades and school behavior. Being bullied can also be a major factor of serious depression.

“I think the adult is more specific in really letting people know they don’t plan to be there, while the child is more indirect, expresses more feelings of hopelessness and shortsightedness,” he said.

Several behaviors are “absolute red flags” that a child is seriously considering taking his or her life, he said.

“If a child gave away his video games, if he gave away his favorite pet – any behavior that looks like this child plans not to be here tomorrow we have to take seriously,” Dr. Margolis said.

He added that parents must “think like a child” in looking for the potential causes of a child’s depression, especially when it comes to loss.

For instance, the loss of a young love or a change from achieving straight-As to Bs might seem like something easily overcome, but it can have huge impacts on a child’s mental state.

When a child exhibits depressive symptoms or suicidal thoughts, those who recognize them must intervene, and if appropriate seek medical help for the child. That includes a child’s peers, who should notify an adult even if it could upset the friend.

“I would rather have you lose the friendship than to lose the friend,” Dr. Margolis said.

Parents can also boost their child’s mental well-being by encouraging positive extracurricular activities and connections to the community – so-called protective factors. Studies show kids who are members of clubs, Scout groups, churches or volunteer are less likely to suffer from depression.

Resources exist to help parents and others prevent youth suicides. Placer County Children’s System of Care sponsors teacher training to help educators spot and respond to depressive students and funds a crisis hotline.

When the unthinkable happens, peers who are left behind have special emotional needs. Parents must be even more aware during these times, since some evidence suggests a suicide can spark others to try their own attempts.

Experts advise encouraging children to express their feelings.

“The reality is young people grieve often in groups or pacts,” Knecht said. “And sometimes grieving together can be a way to come together.”

Online Resources

Youth Violence Prevention Center: www.safeyouth.org

Youth Suicide Prevention Program: www.yspp.org

Centers for Disease Control: www.cdc.gov/ncipc/dvp/suicide/youthsuicide.htm

For help in a crisis

Local youth suicide prevention hotline: 773-3111

California Youth Crisis Line: 1-800-843-5200

The Trevor Project (for gay youth in crisis): 1-866-488-7386