1. Chapter 9 Lesson 2

2. Did You Know When painful feelings become unbearable, some people may try drastic, self-destructive measures to escape their pain.

3. Suicide Risk Factors A. Suicide is the act of intentionally taking one’s own life. B. More than 90% of people who kill themselves are suffering from depression or another mental disorder, or are abusing alcohol or other drugs. C. Other suicidal risk factors include physical or sexual abuse, a history of previous suicide attempts, or a family history of emotional disorders or suicide.

4. Discussion Question What would you suggest for teens who recognize one or more suicide risk factors in themselves, even if they are not contemplating suicide?

5. Strategies to Prevent Suicide A. When a teen talks about suicide– where it’s done in a serious, casual, or even humorous manner– they must be taken seriously. B.Untreated depression is the leading cause of suicide. C.When you are with a person who is contemplating suicide, follow these steps: 1.Initiate a meaningful conversation 2.Show support and ask questions 3.Try to persuade the person to seek help

6. Strategies to Prevent Suicide D. Cluster suicides are a series of suicides occurring within a short period of time and involving several people in the same school or community. To prevent cluster suicides, it is important for close friends and relatives of suicide victims to receive evaluations and counseling.

7. Discussion Question What would you do if, during a casual conversation, a friend joked about planning to commit suicide?

8. benleescafe@yahoo.com