Suicide and Depression

Statistics The 10 th leading cause of death in the U.S. The cause of approximately 99 deaths of Americans daily. Suicide is the 6 th leading cause of death among 5-14 year olds And the 3 rd leading cause of death Among year olds

Stats cont. Every…. Year - there are approximately 10 youth suicides for every 100,000 youth Day - there are approximately 11 youth suicides 2 Hours and 11 Minutes - a person under the age of 25 completes suicide

Characteristics of Suicide 1. Alternative to problem perceived as unsolvable by any other means 2.Crisis thinking colors problem solving (Suicidal solution has an irrational component) 3. Person is often ambivalent 4. Suicide is a form of communication

Some Behaviors are a warning  Suicidal behavior which is any deliberate action (risk taking behaviors) that has a potentially life-threatening consequences. (drug overdose or deliberately crashing a car.)  Examples:  Change in personality-extrovert withdraws, introvert becomes loud and obnoxious  Feelings of hoplessness and helplessness  Depression  Final preparations- giving away possessions

Warnings Signs cont  Poor school work  Apathy, guilt  Change in sleep habits, eating habits  Lathargic, aches and pains  Talk about death  Previous attempts  Desperation, rage  Psychic pain/inner tension, anxiety  Tranquility in someone who has been very upset- A recent event that is particularly distressing such as loss of loved one or a perceived failure.

Most Noticeable Signs  The signs of crisis are: Precipitating Event Intense Affective State (in addition to Depression) Changes in Behavior Speech Actions Deterioration in functioning

Changes in Behavior  SPEECH that may suggest the student is considering suicide  e.g. Sentiments of saying goodbye or going away such as “My family would be better off without me”  ACTIONS such as purchasing a gun or putting one’s affairs in order  e.g. Giving prized belongings away  DETERIORATION IN FUNCTIONING at school, socially, or extra curricular activities  e.g. Increasing use of alcohol or other drugs, other self destructive behavior, rage explosions, loss of control,

Facts  In most cases people talk about suicide before they do it  Most teens attempt it at home  Teenagers attempt suicide by overdosing  Women threaten it, men carry it out more  Often suicide results from some disturbing event  People don’t usually leave evidence or suicide notes

Why Suicide Prevention is Important Third leading cause of death for teens Second leading cause of death in colleges For every completion, there are between attempts CDC Youth Risk Survey: 8.5% grades 9-12 reported attempt in past year 25% high school students report suicide ideation Attempt rate increasing for year olds Same risk and protective factors for suicide as other problem behaviors such as drugs, violence, risky sexual activities

Prevention  While some suicides occur without any outward warning, most people who are suicidal do give warnings.  The emotional crises that usually precede suicide are often recognizable and treatable.  Sadly…sometimes it can’t be stopped.

Myths- If questioned, youth will admit suicidal thoughts or behaviors to parents FALSE …..A teenager is much more likely to share thoughts of suicide with a friend. It is important to teach them that it is never OK to Keep this information to themselves.

Myth- There is no difference in suicidal behavior between boys and girls. FALSE… While girls may attempt 4 times more often as boys. Boys complete a suicide attempt 3 times more often.  Myth- People who talk about suicide don’t complete suicide – they are just seeking attention. FALSE…..Any talk about suicide is serious. Whether through words, writing, or artwork; it can be a serious cry for help.

Once a youth is suicidal, he / she is suicidal forever. FALSE…While a young adult may have a vulnerability toward suicidal ideation, it is important to increase a student’s repertoire of healthy problem solving alternatives, so better coping skills can be used. It is important to be aware of the student and seek help with any questions or concerns you may have.  Other mythss- suicide is often without warning.  Suicide is inherited  A person who attempts suicide wants to die.

Help it is okay to ask for help talk about traumatic events identify trusted adults participate in school & community activities Someone is always there to listen

Depression-Difference between teen and adult  Signs previously stated  Irritable or angry mood – As noted above, irritability, rather than sadness, is often the predominant mood in depressed teens. A depressed teenager may be grumpy, hostile, easily frustrated, or prone to angry outbursts. Unexplained aches and pains – Depressed teens frequently complain about physical ailments such as headaches or stomachaches. If a thorough physical exam does not reveal a medical cause, these aches and pains may indicate depression.

Continued  Extreme sensitivity to criticism – Depressed teens are plagued by feelings of worthlessness, making them extremely vulnerable to criticism, rejection, and failure. This is a particular problem for “over- achievers.” Withdrawing from some, but not all people – While adults tend to isolate themselves when depressed, teenagers usually keep up at least some friendships. However, teens with depression may socialize less than before, pull away from their parents, or start hanging out with a different crowd.

Effects-other than suicide  Problems at school. Depression can cause low energy and concentration difficulties. At school, this may lead to poor attendance, a drop in grades, or frustration.  Running away. Many depressed teens run away from home or talk about running away.  Drug and alcohol abuse. Teens may use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to “self-medicate” their depression.  Low self-esteem. Depression can trigger and intensify feelings of ugliness, shame, failure, and unworthiness.  Internet addiction. Teens may go online to escape from their problems. But excessive computer use only increases their isolation and makes them more depressed.  Reckless behavior. Violence. Some depressed teens (usually boys who are the victims of bullying) become violent. 

Websites to Visit on Teen Suicide Prevention  Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide  Suicide Prevention Resource Center  American Foundation for Suicide Prevention  American Association of Suicidology