Youth Suicide: Prevention Works! Presented by: Mount Si High School Students: ASB Senators, Natural Helpers, ASB Officers and Committee Members. We would like to thank: Kelly Chatwood, MPH King County Field Coordinator,Youth Suicide Prevention Program of Washington State for her assistance with this presentation.

Irritability Anxiety Physical complaints Over-reaction to criticism Poor school performance Signs and Symptoms of Depression

School or work effects ~ missing class Physical Effects ~ losing weight Emotional or personal effects ~ friends annoyed that I am always “down” Possible Impacts of Depression

Someone to listen Learn skills for coping Support Benefits of Getting Help

Thoughts Attempts Death Suicidal Behaviors

True or False? Two Washington State youth complete suicide each week True or False? One out of ten youth attempts suicide True or False? One out of five youth seriously considers suicide True or False? Talking about suicide will “cause” someone to do it True or False? A person who talks about suicide is not really serious about dying True or False? Over 30% of GLB (gay, lesbian, bisexual) youth attempt suicide Facts & Myths About Suicide

Youth suicide is a major problem in Washington State Talking about suicide may help to save a life The Point Is…

Activity: Cups Think about stressors teens have…a problem, worry or concern that a teen might have… This cup represents those stressors.

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

LOSS is a common theme. There are usually many causes. The Point is….

Warning Signs Suicide-Risk Behaviors  Past attempts  Talking about suicide, making plans  Preoccupation with death Depression  Moody, down  Feeling hopeless, withdrawing  Drug/Alcohol Use Things that  Risk  Easy access to guns  Impulsiveness  No one to talk to  Victimization experiences

Ignoring or dismissing the issue  “Oh, let’s talk about something else.”  “You’ll meet another girl and forget 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 that it is wrong to kill yourself?” Giving harmful advice  “Let’s go get drunk and forget about all our problems.” What is NOT Helpful

What IS Helpful Show You Care--Listen carefully “I’m concerned about you... about how you feel.”

What IS Helpful Ask the Question--Be direct but caring & non-confrontational “Are you thinking about suicide?”

What IS Helpful Get Help--Do not leave him/her alone “You’re not alone. Let me help you.”

School counselor Crisis telephone hot-line TALK Physicians/health care providers Mental health specialist Teachers, coaches, parent Clergy, youth leaders GLBT friendly services/people in community/schools Teen Link (Crisis Clinic of King County) 866-TEENLINK (answered by teens) Resources for Help

Youth Suicide: Prevention Works! Questions???