Prevention Harm: Suicide/Depression HB 1386

Preventing Harm: Suicide/Depression O When Life just happens: O Divorce O Someone you care about dies O Difficult home life O Dating relationship ends in a breakup O Problems in a friendship or social group O Family experiences financial problems

Preventing Harm Everyone feels sad or down sometimes. If you have overwhelming feelings of despair that last for more than two weeks, depression can be the cause.

Preventing Harm O Depression O Signs and Symptoms: O Feeling overwhelmed by life O Feeling worthless or hopeless O Loss of interest in things/activates O Lack of energy O Forgetfulness and not being able to concentrate O Changes in eating and sleeping habits

Preventing Harm O Other Warning Signs of Depression: O Tearful and frequent crying O Restlessness and agitation O Feelings of worthlessness and guilt O Lack of motivation and enthusiasm

Emotionally and Physically Healthy O Remember that feeling sad or depressed is a normal part of life O Tips to meet your emotional and physical needs 1) We need both emotional and physical care to strike a good balance. 2) Keep it simple

Emotionally and Physically Healthy O Simple Steps to staying emotionally and physically healthy: O Balancing both (emotional and physical) O Physical: O Eating habits O Sleep habits O H2O (water) O Outside

Preventing Harm O What to do if I get depressed: O Learn about depression O Get help O Find a trusted adult O See a doctor O Stay healthy O Get involved O Tell someone if you feel suicidal

Suicide O Suicide is the third leading cause of death among youth aged O Youth and students that use alcohol or tobacco are at an elevated risk and illicit drug use further compounds the risk for suicide. O Studies show that 90 percent of the individuals that complete suicide had a diagnosable mental health issue. (cdc.gov)

Myths People who talk about suicide won't really do it. Only crazy people commit suicide. Talking about suicide may give someone the idea to commit suicide. If a person is determined to kill him/herself, nothing is going to stop him/her. People who attempt suicide are just trying to get attention. No one I know would commit suicide.

Warning Signs O Noticeable change in behavior. O Signs of depression (sleeping problems, change in appetite, feelings of hopelessness, etc.) O Alcohol or drug abuse. O Obsession with death. O Decline in performance or participation in activities. O Suicidal gesturing or reckless behavior. O Giving away prized possessions. O Unusual purchases (weapon, rope, pills). O Sudden happiness after a prolonged depression. O Talking about suicide or dying. O Withdrawal from friends or family. O Previous suicide attempts. O Statements about hopelessness, worthlessness, helplessness. O Inability to concentrate or trouble remembering. O Chronic pain or frequent complaints of physical symptoms.

Triggers O Being bullied O Break up with girlfriend/boyfriend O Death of a parent or any important person O Divorce O Being ridiculed by peers/not being accepted O A humiliating experience O Contagion

What can you do? O Listen and express concern in a non- judgmental way. O Take action. - get them connected with professional help. O Ask questions openly (e.g., "Do you have a plan?" "Will you talk with someone who can help?") O Show that you care. O Take suicide threats seriously.

What not to do O Do NOT keep it a secret. O Do NOT sidestep the issue or treat it lightly. O Do NOT leave the person alone. O Do NOT offer simple solutions. O Do NOT judge. O Do NOT offer or suggest drugs or alcohol. O Do NOT try to be a therapist - get professional help.

Get Help 1. DO NOT LEAVE THE PERSON AT RISK ALONE! 2. Find a trusted adult to assist IMMEDIATELY. This can be a teacher, coach, counselor, parent or church staff. 3. Calling a hotline is appropriate as well. 4. If you are the person having thoughts, follow these same guidelines.

How can I maintain my emotional health? O Finding ways to be connected to your family and school. O Being involved to create a safer school. O Finding ways to enhance self-esteem. O Working toward academic achievement. O Developing positive relationships with peers at school and other places. O Be willing to ask for help when needed. O Finding opportunities to be responsible for others (volunteering or taking care of pets). O Taking time each day to do something positive for yourself.

Preventing Harm There is Help and there is Hope! You don’t have to go through it alone. Resources: O Parent or trusted adult O School counselor/Teacher O 1(800) O 1 (800) 273-TALK (8255) O Dial 911

References and Resources Your BMMS teachers, coaches, principals, counselors and staff. A trusted adult Denton County MHMR - 24 Hour Crisis Hotline – or TTY – National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – TALK (8255) or TTY American Association of Suicidology – American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – Mental Health America of Texas – National Institute for Mental Health – Suicide Prevention Resource Center –