1. DEATH : How do we FEEL? We are afraid that we might upset those around us. We are scared because it shows we are “temporary”. Uncertainties: We don’t know for sure what happens after, when it will happen, how, etc. We try to “replace” the loved one with other “things”. People feel that grieving should done alone.

2. A EUPHEMISM: Is a substitution of an agreeable or less offensive expression in place of one that may offend or suggest something unpleasant to the listener; [ [ Example: Ground beef or hamburger for ground flesh of dead cow FOR DEATH? Passed on/away, better place, met their maker, resting in peace Making “Light”: Checked out, permanent vacation, kicked the bucket.

3. What to say/how to comfort those coping with loss I’m sorry to hear about your loss. Is there anything I can do? Just let me know. I’m always here for you. Whenever you want to talk, give me a call. I don’t know exactly how you’re feeling, but I’ve been in similar situations.

4. Shock/denial (can’t believe it) Anger/rage (at everything) Bargaining (God, self, others) Sadness/Depression (can’t stop crying) Acceptance (quit trying to change the situation)

5. 1.List at least ONE (1) way you can cope with the death of a loved one. 2.You find out a friend’s relative has just passed away. What can you do to make them feel better? 3.Your parent is very upset about the passing of their close friend. Is there anything you can do or say to comfort your parent? 4.You are having difficulty dealing with the death of a friend or loved one, but your friends/family don’t seem to help much. Is there anyone else to help?

6. What is Mental Illness? A disease of the brain that causes unusual thoughts, actions, and emotions, including depression. Mental Illness may be caused by a reaction to environmental stresses, genetic factors, biochemical imbalances, or a combination of these. An estimated 54 million Americans suffer with mental illness in any given year.

7. Let’s Talk: DEPRESSION What is it? Clinical depression is a serious illness that is sometimes referred to as Major Depression. Depression may interfere with your ability to function. What are some symptoms? Crying, difficulty concentrating, feeling guilty, life seems meaningless. Changes in eating, activity, and sleeping patterns may occur. Common thoughts about death or suicide.

8. What is Manic Depression? Another name for “manic depression” is bipolar disorder. Mania, depression, and normal moods alternate. Bipolar disorder mania is characterized by unreal thoughts, uncontrollable energy, acting wild or taking unnecessary risks. Often irritable and rebellious with racing thoughts; there is little need for sleep. Depression phase is characterized by loss of interest in activities, thoughts of worthlessness, sleep often, and suicidal thoughts.

9. Mr. Pollack 8 th Grade Health

10. Statistics on Teen Suicide Suicide is the Eighth leading cause of death for all persons OVERALL regardless of age, sex, or race. Suicide is the THIRD leading cause of death for young people aged 15-24 and the FOURTH leading cause of death for young people between the ages of 10 and 14. Boys commit suicide more often than girls, but girls attempt it more often. 60% of high school students have said they have thought about killing themselves; 9% have tried at least once.

11. Warning Signs of Suicide Change in appetite; poor appetite with significant weight loss or increased appetite with significant weight gain.Change in appetite; poor appetite with significant weight loss or increased appetite with significant weight gain. Change in sleep patterns; sleeping too much or not enough.Change in sleep patterns; sleeping too much or not enough. Change in activity level; not interested in things that used to interest them/dropping out of activities.Change in activity level; not interested in things that used to interest them/dropping out of activities. Loss of energy; feeling tired all of the time.Loss of energy; feeling tired all of the time. Feeling worthless; excessive or inappropriate guilty feelings.Feeling worthless; excessive or inappropriate guilty feelings. Difficulty concentrating, grades dropping.Difficulty concentrating, grades dropping. Substance abuse (drugs, alcohol).Substance abuse (drugs, alcohol). Cutting oneself/Self-inflicting harm.Cutting oneself/Self-inflicting harm. Changes in appearance; not caring about hygiene/appearance.Changes in appearance; not caring about hygiene/appearance. Giving away prized possessions.Giving away prized possessions. Having a sudden IMPROVEMENT in mood.Having a sudden IMPROVEMENT in mood.

12. NOT What “NOT TO DO” DO NOT dare the person to go ahead and make the suicidal attempt or think they’re kidding. DO NOT analyze the suicidal person’s motives. DO NOT argue with the suicidal person or try to convince them why they shouldn’t do it. DO NOT keep the suicidal person’s self- destructive thoughts or actions a secret. DO NOT leave a suicidal person alone.

13. What “TO DO”: HELP! Trust your feelings if you believe the person may be suicidal. Take the person’s threats and talks about suicide seriously. Let the person know that you’re concerned and how much you care for them. Listen carefully to the person. Talk calmly to the person/don’t argue. Let someone know what’s going on (parent, teacher, coach, etc.) Find professional help for them (i.e. counselor, social worker, psychiatrist, psychologist, doctor). Stay with the person until help arrives.