Name at least 5 warning signs of depression

Define Depression Define Anxiety Discuss HW WS 69

Suicide Prevention and Getting Help Ch. 5 pg. 122

Myths and Facts About Suicide Myth – People who don’t talk about suicide won’t really attempt it Fact – People who talk about suicide are usually considering it and should be taken seriously Myth – When people are determined to commit suicide, nothing can stop them Fact – Getting help for suicidal people can prevent it Myth – Talking about suicide may give someone the idea to attempt it Fact - Talking about suicide and where to get help will help prevent it

Suicide Risk Factors Alcohol/Drug abuse Depression/Mental Disorder Stressful Situation or Loss Previous Suicide Attempts Access to Weapons Cluster Suicides

Suicide Prevention Thoughts/behaviors are expressions of extreme distress Discussion should be treated as if it were going to happen. Initiate meaningful conversation Support him/her and ask questions Encourage him/her to seek help

Warning Signs of Suicide Direct and indirect statements Journal entries, poems, song lyrics dealing with death Direct or indirect suicide threats Unusual obsession with death Withdrawal Dramatic changes in personality, hygiene or appearance Impulsive, irrational, or unusual behavior Sense of guilt, shame, or rejection; negative self-evaluation

Warning Signs of Suicide, cont. Deterioration in schoolwork or recreational performance Giving away personal belongings Substance abuse Complaints about physical symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches, and fatigue Persistent boredom and indifference Violent actions, rebellious behavior, or running away Intolerance for praise or rewards

Getting Help Be aware that help is needed! When it’s Needed Be aware that help is needed! Feeling trapped or worried constantly Feelings affect sleep, diet, performance, or relationships Alcohol/Drug use Increase in aggression, violence, or recklessness Where To Go People around you are available for help! School officials Parents Counselors Clergy Crisis Hotlines

Stumbling Blocks Perceived lack of help Admitting help is needed is extremely difficult Seeking helps seems like weakness but it is in fact great inner strength Serious disorders require professional intervention which is intimidating

Mental Health Professionals Counselor School Psychologist Psychiatrist Neurologist Clinical Psychologist Psychiatric Social Worker

Treatment Methods Psychotherapy – ongoing dialogue between a patient and mental health professional Behavior Therapy – treatment process that focuses on changing unwanted behaviors through rewards and reinforcements Cognitive Therapy – treatment method designed to identify and correct distorted thinking patterns that can lead to feelings and behaviors that may be troublesome, self-defeating, or self-destructive

Treatment Methods, cont. Family Therapy – helps the family function in more positive and constructive ways by exploring patterns in communication and providing support and education Group Therapy – treats a group of people who have similar problems and who meet regularly with a trained counselor Drug Therapy – use of certain medications to treat or reduce the symptoms of a mental disorder Test on Unit 1 Read Ch. 6