New York Association of School Psychologists New York Association of School Psychologists & New York State Office of Mental Health Office of Mental HealthPresents Friends Helping Friends

FRIENDS... DO YOU HEAR ME, DO YOU SEE ME?

THE SPEAK INITIATIVE  More people die from suicides than homicides in our country  Third leading cause of death for young people (ages 15 –24)  Approximately 150,000 New York teenagers attempt suicide each year, and 70 will die as a result  The national rate of teen suicide has nearly tripled since the 1950’s  Prevention and early intervention saves lives

IS IT JUST THE BLUES OR AM I DEPRESSED?  Everybody has normal ups and downs  Depression is more than just the blues  Depression impacts us on an emotional, behavioral, and social level

FACT OR FICTION...  Teens don’t suffer from “real” depression  Teens who complain of being depressed are just weak  Talking about depression only makes it worse  Telling an adult that a friend may be depressed is betraying a trust  Talking about suicide will give the person the idea to hurt themselves

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT DEPRESSION  What are possible causes of depression?  How common is it?  Is it serious?  Is depression the same for everyone?  Can it be treated?  Why don’t people get help?

PREVENTION AND EARLY INTERVENTION SAVES LIVES  Recognize the warning signs  Talk to someone who can help