JTHS Senior Health 10/16/2014

Suicide (Latin suicide, from sui caedere, "to kill oneself") is the act of intentionally causing one's own death. Suicide is often carried out as a result of despair, the cause of which is frequently attributed to a mental disorder such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, alcoholism, or drug abuse. What is Suicide ?

Suicide Risk Factors Risk factors are characteristics or conditions that increase the chance that a person may try to take their life. The more risk factors, the higher the risk. Health Factors Mental health conditions. Depression. Bipolar (manic-depressive) disorder. Schizophrenia. Borderline or antisocial personality disorder. Conduct disorder. Psychotic disorders, or psychotic symptoms in the context of any disorder Anxiety disorders. Substance abuse disorders. Serious or chronic health condition and/or pain.

Environmental Factors Contagion would include exposure to another person’s suicide, or to graphic or sensationalized accounts of suicide. Access to Lethal Means including firearms and drugs. Prolonged Stress Factors which may include harassment, bullying, relationship problems, and unemployment. Stressful Life Events which may include a death, divorce, or job loss. Historical Factors Previous Suicide Attempts. Family History of Suicide Attempts.

Suicide Warning Signs People who kill themselves exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do. The more warning signs, the greater the risk. If a person talks about: Killing themselves. Having no reason to live. Being a burden to others. Feeling trapped. Unbearable pain. Behavior A person’s suicide risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased, especially if it’s related to a painful event, loss, or change. Increased use of alcohol or drugs. Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online for materials or means. Acting recklessly. Withdrawing from activities. Isolating from family and friends. Sleeping too much or too little. Visiting or calling people to say goodbye. Giving away prized possessions. Aggression

Mood People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods. Depression. Loss of interest. Rage. Irritability. Humiliation Anxiety.

Statistics At least 90 percent of all people who died by suicide were suffering from a mental illness at the time, most often depression. Drugs and Alcohol often masking the issues. Morris County reported 8 Suicide Deaths in 2013 Jefferson Township had 8 deaths in 2011, two in 2012, 1 in 2013 and 5 in 2014 to date. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for young people ages Think about it... the second most likely thing to take one of your friends is suicide.

Even though one out of fifteen students have attempted suicide in the past year, that means that fourteen have not. But one suicide attempt is too many... especially if that one is your friend.

Have a game plan in place in the event that any one of your friends ever indicates they are hurting or thinking of hurting themselves. Don't be afraid to talk to someone who seems to be depressed or hurting. At the very least, your friends will know there is someone who cares for them. Where do I go for help? Your favorite teacher/coach Parents Clergy Guidance counselor Doctor Trusted adult Crisis line such as Suicide ( ) Or text “CWC” to M-F 4-10pm

Story of Hope and Recovery – Jordan Burnham…You Tube Video Sponsored by SAMHSA Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration 1 Choke Cherry Road Rockville, MD SAMHSA-7

Other Resources: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Contact We Care or “A friend Asks “ App. Songs: Haunted- Kelly Clarkson A Day Without Me – U2 Why – Rascal Flatts By the Grace of God – Kate Perry I Need a Miracle – 3 rd Day Try Again - Seein