1. SUICIDE
“Suicide is not chosen; it happens when pain exceeds resources for coping with pain”

2. Suicide Statistics
Every 1hr. & 40min. a young person kills themselves in the U.S.
Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for people
There are 4 male deaths for each 1 female death by suicide. (3 female attempts are made for every 1 male attempt)
For every 1 death by suicide, there are 25 attempts made in our nation.

3. Common Myths About Suicide
If you mention suicide, you could give a depressed person the idea.
Those who talk about suicide won’t do it.
Suicide happens without warning.
The person is intent on dying.
Low risk once the person’s mood improves.
Suicidal people leave notes.
Suicidal people won’t tell you.

4. Warning Signs Taking Risks, lashing out and becoming self-destructive.
Talking or writing about suicide
Sudden changes in personality, behavior, . eating, and sleeping.
Decline in school work.
Unusual neglect of personal appearance.
Making arrangements, such as cleaning one’s room, paying off a debt, giving away treasured possessions.
Withdrawal from activities that used to be enjoyed.

5. Warning Signs Breaking up a love relationship in the last 2 months.
Feelings of worthlessness or self-loathing.
Verbal hints like “I’ve had enough”, “nothing matters”, “I hate my life”.
Using drugs and alcohol.
Becoming suddenly cheerful and calm after a period of depression. Could indicate that the person has come to the decision to commit suicide.
Direct suicide threats. “If you break up with me I’ll kill myself”.

6. Suicide “Notes” – Why?! Failure Exhaustion Mental Illness
Unresolved Childhood abuse
Lack of Sleep
Oppression
Emotional Anorexia
Physical Impairment
Loss/Grief
Bullying
Addiction
Double Bind (In with the “bad guys”)

7. “SAD PERSONS” S - Sex (male) A - Age (15-34) D - Depression
P - Previous Exposure to Suicide
E – Ethanol (alcohol)/Drug Use
R - Rational Thinking Loss/No Hope
S - Support System Lacking
O - Organized Plan
N - No Spouse/Significant Other
S - Sickness

8. “DON’T’S” of Intervention
Do not overlook risk factors or signs
Do not “call their bluff”
Do not sound shocked
Do not offer empty promises
Avoid Criticism or advice
Do not judge or debate morality
Do not leave the person alone
Do NOT KEEP IT A SECRET
Do not be the only person helping

9. “DO’S” of Intervention
LISTEN…..
Remain Calm
Take their Feelings seriously
Offer genuine concern, not pity
Maintain Contact
INQUIRE ABOUT SUICIDE PLAN…
Ask the question: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?”
Find out if they have a plan? – is it Lethal, specific, available?
What outcome is expected?
Were previous attempts made?

10. “DO’S” of Intervention
Get help! – As much as we would like, we do not have the medical skills needed to help our friend all by ourselves.
You HAVE to tell – a counselor, parent, teacher, pastor, doctor.
1-800-suicide, dontcut, 911!