Chapter 10 Lesson 2- Suicide Prevention

Depression and the Teen years Depression – the feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and sadness Feelings can be further complicated by troubling life events, such as the divorce or separation of parents or the loss of a loved one Alienation – Feeling isolated and separated from everyone else

Suicide risk factors Suicide and suicidal behavior are not normal responses to the stresses experienced by most people Youth at high risk are those who are depressed, isolated and angry 50% of suicidal adolescents are considered depresses

Suicide risk factors Other suicide risk factors: Substance abuse Violence or emotional, physical or sexual abuse Prior suicide attempts, firearms I the house, jail time, a family history of a mental disorder and exposure to other suicides Sometimes accidental

Suicide Warning Signs Verbal signs: Direct Statements “I want to die” “I don’ want to live anymore” “ I wish I were dead”

Suicide Warning Signs Verbal signs: Indirect statements “ You won’t have to put up with me much longer” “I just want to go to sleep and never wake up” “They’ll be sorry when I’m gone” “I won’t be a problem too much longer” “Nothing matters, who cares?”

Non Verbal/Behavioral Signs Depression and hopelessness Lack of energy and zest for life Withdrawal from family and friends Drop in grades Giving away prized possessions Increased risk taking Personality change Sudden upbeat mood signaling a decision

Non Verbal/Behavioral Signs Violent behavior Irrational or bizarre behavior Drug and alcohol use Rebellious behavior or running away

Preventing Suicide Most suicide thoughts are temporary, but death is permanent With help people suffering from depression or extreme stress or mental disorders can often be helped

Helping Others The first thing to remember is that people who are suicidal often feel that no one cares Show that you care Get professional help as soon as possible

What to do When you think some one may be thinking about suicide Take all talk of suicide seriously Listen and show support Be calm and understanding Talk directly, openly and freely Allow Peron to express feelings Show EMPATHY Let people know you and others care

What to do When you think some one may be thinking about suicide Stress temporary nature of problems and feelings Emphasize there is help Professional help available

What to do When you think some one may be thinking about suicide Make clear you understand their pain, but suicide is not the answer Ask if they have a specific plan and mean to follow it Be sure there are no weapons or drugs available Suggest they talk to parent or trusted adult Do not agree to keep secret

DO NOT AGREE TO KEEP SECRET

Multiple Suicides Cluster Suicides Rash of suicides occurring within a short space of time and involving several people in the same school or community Some are result of pacts These pacts often fail, guilt by survivor is unbearable

Did You Know Firearms account for 81% of all suicides among teens Suicide 2 nd leading cause of death among teens 1992 more teens died from suicide than cancer, heart disease AIDS, birth defects, stroke land lung disease combined

TEEN SUICIDE