I was concerned when my son started taking anti-depressants too. Exactly because of the increased rate of suicide in teens. I expressed my concerns with the prescribing psychiatrist, and he addressed the statistical data and how that related to my son's condition. After our conversation, I was reassured that the benefits out-weighed the risks, and that he was responsibly monitoring and prescribing the medication. Perhaps your doctor is willing to have this sort of discussion with your mother?