Depression and Suicide Chapter 4.3

Health Stats What relationship is there between risk of depression and how connected teens feel to their school? What could make someone feel very connected to school? What could make someone feel disconnected?

Depression can cause problems at school, at home, and in one’s social life. Clinical Depression If untreated, depression can also lead to substance abuse, serious behavior problems, and even suicide. People with clinical depression may feel sad and hopeless for months. Defining Depression A person who has clinical depression will experience four or more of the symptoms nearly every day for at least two weeks. Recognizing Depression

A parent or other close biological relative with a mood disorder Risk Factors A major life change or a prolonged stressful situation Being the victim of a violent crime or witnessing violence A previous bout of depression A sense of hopelessness

Medication is an effective treatment for clinical depression. Treatment for Depression Medication helps to restore normal brain function.

Self-injury is an unhealthy way to cope with emotions, stress, or traumatic events. Self-Injury Cutting is the use of a sharp object to intentionally cut or scratch one’s body deep enough to bleed. Burning the skin on purpose with a lighted match or cigarette is another.

Suicide is the intentional killing of oneself. Suicide Prevention Mental health experts have identified factors that put people at risk for suicide.

Mood disorders, such as depression, are a major risk factor for suicide. Risk Factors A previous suicide attempt or a family history of suicide Having both a mental disorder and a substance abuse disorder Feelings of hopelessness or isolation Lack of access to mental health treatment Being influenced by the suicide of family members, peers, or celebrities

People at risk for suicide can reduce their risk by Protective Factors seeking treatment for any mental disorders seeking treatment for alcohol or drug abuse establishing a connection with school developing closer relationships with family and friends Cluster suicides are a series of suicides that occur within a short period of time in the same peer group or community. Cluster Suicides

It would be very helpful if someone who was about to attempt suicide showed unmistakable warning signs. Warning Signs Unfortunately, most suicides occur without warning.

An important thing to remember is that suicidal behavior is a cry for help in dealing with problems that seem overwhelming. Helping Others Suicidal people often feel that they have looked to others for support and have received no response. It is important that you show care and concern for the person.

If you have been feeling depressed, remember that no matter how overwhelming the problems in your life may seem, suicide is never a solution. It is vital that you talk about your feelings with a trusted adult or mental health professional. Helping Yourself Consider talking with a family member who lives nearby, an adult friend of the family, or an adult in your faith community. Crisis centers and suicide-prevention hotlines are other resources you can use.

TREATING MENTAL DISORDERS 4.4

Dear Advice Line, Lately, I spend a lot of time just staring at the ceiling or crying for no reason at all. I haven’t told anyone about my problems. I don’t want to be labeled as “a mental case.” What advice would you give to this person? What would you say about the person’s fear of being labeled?

Sometimes people don’t recognize the signs of a mental disorder. Or they may have been told that, with willpower alone, they can overcome the problem. Or they may not know where to go for help. The first step toward recovery is recognizing the need for help. Do not ignore the warning signs If you have a mental illness you should see a mental health professional for treatment Locating Community Resources

Psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, social workers, and mental health counselors are four types of mental health professionals. Types of Mental Health Professionals

A psychiatrist is a physician who can diagnose and treat mental disorders. Psychiatrists A psychiatrist will do a medical exam to rule out physical causes. Then, he or she will talk with a patient to find out what symptoms the patient has. A neurologist is a physician who treats physical disorders of the nervous system.

A clinical psychologist is trained to recognize and treat behavior that is not normal. A psychiatric social worker helps people with mental disorders and their families to accept and adjust to an illness. They listen to and advise people Social Workers Some mental health counselors focus on specific problems or work with specific groups of people. Mental Health Counselors Clinical Psychologists

Three methods used to treat mental disorders are Kinds of Treatment psychotherapy drug therapy hospitalization

During psychotherapy, a person talks with a therapist. These talks help people understand and overcome their mental disorders. Psychotherapy Insight Therapy This type of therapy helps people better understand the reasons for their behavior. Goal is with this insight they will be able to change some of their behaviors Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy This type of therapy helps a person to identify situations, objects, or thoughts that trigger abnormal behaviors. Goal is for the patient to learn new ways to behave Group Therapy In group therapy, people meet with other people who have similar disorders. Group works together to develop coping skills

Doctors prescribe drugs to treat many mental disorders. Drug Therapy The drugs can relieve symptoms and allow patients to function normally.

Sometimes people with mental disorders need constant attention or are in danger of harming themselves or others. Hospitalization