1. SUICIDE PREVENTION WEEK SEPTEMBER 7 – 13 **If you are in crisis and need help: call this toll-free number, available 24 hours a day, every day 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You will reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a service available to anyone. You may call for yourself or for someone you care about and all calls are confidential. You can also visit the Lifeline's website at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.National Suicide Prevention Lifeline http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

2. Suicide An Increasing Public Health Concern Leading Cause of Death in multiple age groups o 15-24 age group - 3rd o 25-34 age group - 2nd o 35-54 age group - 4th o 66-64 age group - 8th One death every 13 minutes from suicide in the US Over 39,000 Americans died in 2011 from suicide Over 487,700 people with self-inflicted injuries were treated in the US ER in 2011 Firearm and poisoning suicide rates increased significantly, suffocation (hanging) rates increased the most among men and women aged 35–64 years

3. Clinical Study Shows The rise in suicide rates among middle-aged adults due to the recent economic downturn A cohort effect, based on evidence that the "baby boomer" generation had unusually high suicide rates during their adolescent years Men are more likely to die by suicide than women, but women are more likely to attempt suicide Men are more likely to use deadlier methods, such as firearms or suffocation White males age 85 and older have the highest suicide rate than any other age and ethnic group

4. Risk Factors of Suicide History of previous suicide attempts Family history of suicide Family violence including physical or sexual abuse History of depression or other mental illness Alcohol or drug abuse Stressful life event or loss Easy access to lethal methods, firearm Exposure to the suicidal behavior of others Incarceration

5. Suicide In Teens Suicide in teens is a serious and growing Problems – There are 50-200 suicide attempts for every completion – Almost 7% of high school students report making a suicide attempt – Over 14% of high school students report suicidal thoughts Suicide warning signs in teens: – Change in eating and sleeping habits – Withdrawal from friends, family, and regular activities – Violent or rebellious behavior, running away – Drug and alcohol use – Unusual neglect of personal appearance – Persistent boredom, difficulty concentrating, or a decline in the quality of schoolwork – Frequent complaints about physical symptoms, often related to emotions, such as stomachaches, headaches, fatigue, etc. – Not tolerating praise or rewards Source: American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

6. Warning Signs of Suicide Talking, or reading materials about death and suicide Feelings of worthlessness, hopeless, guilt, shame, and self-hatred Increased alcohol or drug use, reckless driving Disruption of sleep patterns Failure to take care of self or follow medical orders Stockpiling medications Sudden interest in firearms Social withdrawal or elaborate good-byes Rush to complete or revise a will

7. Suicide Prevention Recognize warning signs and talk to the person to get professional help Take any suicidal talk or behavior seriously Evaluate the immediate danger and respond quickly Offer help and give support, be proactive. Medication cause an increase in depression and suicidal thoughts and feelings. FDA advises that anyone on antidepressants should be watched for increase in suicidal thoughts and behaviors.