2. Suicide Prevention Becoming Informed

3. Facts about Suicide  Over 32,000 people in the United States kill themselves every year.  Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death among 15-34 year olds.  Suicide is the 4th leading cause of death among 10-14 year olds.  A person commits suicide about every 15 minutes in the United States but an attempt is made about once a minute.

4. A Suicidal Act is: Well thought out Almost always preceded by warning signals More often harmful than fatal A final cry for help A potential option for anyone Preventable

5. Teenagers at high risk for suicide Those who have made previous suicide attempts. Those who abuse drug and/or alcohol. Those who may be gay. Those who may copy others who have committed suicide. Those who suffer from clinical depression.

6. Risk factors Changes in relationships (break up with a boyfriend/girlfriend) Divorce of parents Death of a loved one Change in schools, financial situation, home life (move to new area, parent just remarried) Abuse

7. Warning signs Loss of interest in usual activities Showing signs of sadness, hopelessness, irritability Changes in appetite, weight, behavior, activity level, or sleep patterns Loss of energy Giving away prized possessions

8. More Warning signs Making negative comments about self Recurring suicidal thoughts or fantasies Sudden change from depression to being “peaceful” Talking, writing or hinting about suicide

9. Even more warning signs Declining performance in school, work, and other activities Neglect in personal welfare- deteriorating physical appearance Social isolation-not hanging out with friends or changing types of friends

10. What can I do to help someone who maybe suicidal? Take it seriously -3/4 of all suicides give some warning of their intentions to a friend or family member. Be willing to listen -Ask what is the matter and persist until you get an answer. Be honest -If what your friend says scares you, tell him or her.

11. What else could I do? Tell your friend you care about them. Be open-minded and don’t judge them-be as supportive as possible. Avoid giving advice-try to remember that everyone is different and just because something works for you doesn’t mean it will work for them. Find help-tell a parent, teacher, counselor or another adult.

12. What NOT to do Don’t be sworn to secrecy. Never leave a suicidal person alone. Do not appear shocked or alarmed by what the person tells you. Do not get into a debate on the morals of suicide. (This may increase a person’s feeling of guilt and sadness.) Do not point out that other people have worse troubles.

13. Where could I get help? Suicide prevention hotline: 614-221-5445 Teen Hotline: 614-294-3300 Pickerington Area Counseling: 614-834-1919 New Horizons: 740-687-0835