Suicide Prevention

Adolescent Suicide in the United States 3rd leading cause of death in adolescents, nationwide 1 Accidents 2 Homicides 3 Suicide 2nd leading cause of death in the West For every 2 people murdered, 3 youth take their own life Approximately 50% of deaths labeled “accidental” may actually be suicide

Adolescent Suicide Approximately 12 young people die every day of suicide. Every 2 hours and 2.5 minutes, a person under the age of 25 commits suicide. Suicide rates for 15-19 are 300% higher than the 1950’s. Firearms are the most commonly used method of suicide among youth - 3 of 5 completed suicides. Black male youth have shown the largest increase in suicide rates (180%) Most suicides occur in the afternoon or evening and in the teen’s home.

Adolescent Suicide in Utah 12th ranking among 50 states Davis County has highest rate 1% were in treatment when they died and 2/3 were involved in the criminal justice system 3 females attempt for every male - 4.1 males are successful for every 1 female More than 90% of youth who complete suicide suffer from mental illness.

Gender Differences In an average classroom, one boy and three girls have attempted suicide in the past year. Girls attempt three times as often as boys. Boys complete three times more often than girls. Girls tend to use less lethal methods (overdose, slit wrists). Boys tend to use quicker and more lethal methods. Girls tend to verbalize emotions, thus increasing suicidal intervention. Boys tend to resort to avoidance and displacement, thus isolating themselves and increasing changes of explosive suicidal responses.

Environmental Warning Signs Death Terminal Illness Divorce or Separation Broken Relationships Stress on Family Loss of Health Loss of Job, Home, Money, Status, Security. Alcohol or Drug Abuse Previous Attempts Change in Environment

Behavioral Warning Signs Depression Hopelessness Powerlessness Worthlessness Social Isolation Declining Performance Neglect of Personal Welfare Alterations in Sleeping Alterations in Eating Statements Planning Reckless Behavior Giving Away Possessions Saying Goodbye Ambiguous Behavior

Level 1 Risk Suicidal ideas are inferred from behaviors that suggest such thoughts If a youth talks about suicide methods, it must be assumed that he / she is serious Such ideas / preparations may be indicative of possible violence toward others Regardless of the situation, adults caring for youth must act immediately

Level 2 Risk Suicidal gestures are self-destructive behaviors that call attention to the fact that a youth may be considering suicide Distinction between suicide gestures and suicide attempts do not dictate whether there should be intervention, but rather how to intervene

Level 3 Risk Suicide attempts are life-threatening behaviors that jeopardize life or give the appearance of such an attempt Intervention is a must Seek medical attention immediately

Level 4 Risk Suicide completion represents tragic success of suicide attempt Sometimes attempts turn into completions by mistake

Always react as though an attempt is potentially deadly and only determine the degree of seriousness after the child is safe

Youth Most Likely to Attempt 1. Extreme Attention Seekers 2. Status Seekers 3. Youth Under Stress Who Possess Limited Problem-Solving Skills 4. Youth Under Stress Who Have High Risk Profiles For Suicide

Staff Actions Take it Seriously! Remember: Suicidal behavior is a cry for help. Be willing to give and get help sooner rather than later. Listen Ask Questions Monitor Constantly Urge Professional Help No Secrets!!!!! Report, Report, Report Talk to Therapists

Suicide Prevention This training presentation is available for download at: www.utahparenting.org © 2007 Utah Youth Village.