Suicide Prevention Brought to you by: North Kitsap Lifesavers

True or False? Two Youth in Washington state complete suicide each week. Mentioning Suicide will “plant the seed” or “cause” people to consider suicide. A person considering suicide is intent on completing suicide. One out of Five youth seriously consider suicide. Everyone has potential for suicidal thoughts.

Signs and Symptoms Irritability Anxiety Isolation Physical Complaints Poor performance Recent Loss Talking/thinking about “no hope” or death

Possible Impacts of Depression School or Work Effects Missing class Poor performance Physical Effects Weight loss Weight Gain Visible scars from self inflicted wounds Personal Effects Loss of friends Deeper into depression

Causes of Suicidal Behavior Individual Depression, hopelessness, anxiety Drugs and/or alcohol use School Failing grades Suspension School pressures Home Family conflicts/fights Death/ Divorce Abuse Relationships Break up with girlfriend/ boyfriend Pregnancy Bullying Physical Abuse

Self Harm Cutting Hitting Scratching Burning Eating Disorders Mental Harm

Coping Strategies Listening to music Writing Talking to friends Squeezing ice cubes Working out Drawing Animals Sitting on hands Stress ball Rubber bands Worry stones

You or a Friend?

Progression

The Cycle to Break 1.Stress/ dramatic event(s) 2.Depression 3.Suicidal Thoughts 4.Suicide Attempts 5.Death

What NOT To Do & What Is NOT Helpful Never act shocked “Really?! I would never expect you to feel that way.” Never suggest negative alternatives “Lets go party this weekend and you will forget all about it.” Never deal with these feelings on your own “If I care enough they will begin to feel better…” “ I will just tough it out and things will begin to improve.” Ignoring or dismissing the issue “Oh, lets talk about something else.” You’ll meet another girl and forget about this one, you’re a great guy.” Acting shocked or embarrassed “You aren’t REALLY thinking of suicide, are you?” Challenging or debating “So go ahead; see if things really do get better.” “Don’t you know it is wrong to kill yourself?”

Legal Consequences A person is guilty of promoting a suicide attempt when he knowingly causes or aids another person to attempt suicide. Promoting a suicide attempt is a class C felony. Wa. Rev. Code § 9A Initiative 1000, approved 10/4/08

What IS Helpful? Show You Care—Listen carefully “I’m concerned about you….About how you feel.” Ask the question while showing you care! “Are you thinking about suicide?”

Get Help ASK THE QUESTION Be direct in a caring, non-confrontational way. “Are you thinking about suicide?” GET HELP Do not leave him/her alone *”I know where we can get some help.” *”I can go with you to where we can get some help.” *”You’re not alone. Let me help you.”

Resources for Help School Counselor Crisis telephone hot- line Physicians/health care providers Mental health specialist Teachers/Coaches and/or Parents Clergy/Youth Leaders

Who to call (360) (local) (Toll Free if you are outside the local calling area) SUICIDE (national crisis line) TALK (national crisis line)