Mental Health: when should I be worried? How to Recognize and Intervene with Youth Having Mental Health Symptoms Presented By: Laura Magnuson, MA, MS, LAMFT Senior Director, Outpatient and Social Services

Mental health statistics specific TO Youth Suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 10-24 (2013 CDC WISQARS). More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease, COMBINED. Each week in our nation, we lose approximately 100 young people to suicide. Four out of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warning signs.

Signs and Concerns Suicide threats: either direct or indirect statements Previous suicide attempts Preoccupation or obsession with death or suicide Depression Final arrangements Other signs

Suicide Threats: Direct or Indirect statements People who talk about suicide, threaten suicide or call crisis lines are 30 times more likely than average to kill themselves. Take threats seriously: I’d be better off dead. I won’t be bothering you much longer. You’ll be better off without me around. I hate my life. I’m going to kill myself. Remember that these may not always be verbal statements and can appear via text and social media platforms.

Previous Suicide attempts One out of three suicide deaths is not the individual’s first attempt, The risk for completing suicide is more than 100 times greater during the first year after an attempt, Take any instance of deliberate self-harm seriously,

Preoccupations or obsessions with death or suicide Essays, writing about death Poems about death Artwork, drawings depicting death Again, be aware of postings to social media.

SIGNS OF Depression Sudden, abrupt changes in personality Expressions of hopelessness and despair Declining grades and school performance Lack of interest in activities once enjoyed Increased irritability and aggressiveness Withdrawal from family, friends, and relationships Lack of hygiene Changes in eating and sleeping habits

Final arrangements Giving away prized or favorite possessions Putting affairs in order, making amends Saying good-bye to family and friends Making funeral arrangements

Other signs Experiencing a recent loss-a loved one, relationship, job, etc. Increased use or abuse of alcohol or drugs Recent separation or divorce of parents Feelings of loneliness or abandonment Feelings of shame, guilt, humiliation or rejection Emotional stress and difficulties may result in physical complaints Taking excessive risks, being reckless

Common Myths about speaking to someone who is thinking of suicide People who talk about suicide won’t really do it. If a person is determined to kill him/herself, nothing is going to stop him/her. Talking about suicide may give someone the idea. People who attempt suicide and do not complete suicide are just trying to get attention and are not really serious.

What do I do to help when I see signs? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BByqa7bhto&feature=player_detail page

What not to say, or do Just stop it. Give it time and it will pass. Tell them to stop thinking about the past. Try to relate to them by comparing what they are telling you to your own experience like the time when your purse was stolen or you went through your divorce. Use what they are saying as an invitation to talk about how bad you're feeling. Tell them that everything happens for a reason.

What can I do Acknowledge their feelings. Affirm their right to speak. Validate their experience. Listen without judgment. Allow them to process what is going on. Let them cry. Be aware of resources.

What to do in a crisis In an acute crisis, take your youth or loved one to an emergency room or walk-in clinic at a psychiatric hospital. Do not leave him alone until help is available. Remove from the vicinity any firearms, drugs, or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt. Hospitalization may be indicated and may be necessary at least until the crisis abates. If a psychiatric facility is unavailable, go to your nearest hospital or clinic.

Helpful things to say That sounds really difficult. Is there anything I can do to help? It sounds like you're in real distress. It sounds like you're having a crisis. It sounds like you're very upset. I hear how awful that must be for you. I'll bet that brought up some difficult feelings. It's okay to cry. I'm here for you. Tell me what reasons you want to die? What reasons do you want to live?

Where do I turn for help?

Resources available Teen Lifeline 24/7 Phone Centers 602.248.8336 National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1.800.273.8255 Aurora Patient Services Helpline: 480.345.5420 Maricopa Crisis Line 602.222.9444

Questions/discussion Laura Magnuson laura.magnuson@aurorabehavioral.com 623.344.4411