DEPRESSION & SUICIDE

Depression – What is it? Feelings of sadness, hopelessness & despair that persist and interfere with academics, work performance or interpersonal relationships

Adolescent Depression: The Signs Irritability Overreaction to criticism Problems with authority Persistent feelings of sadness A drop in school performance Indecision, lack of concentration Poor self-esteem Frequent physical complaints

Suicidal Behaviors Thoughts Attempts Death

Facts and Myths about Suicide If my friend talked about killing herself, even jokingly, she could really mean it and might commit suicide ANSWER: TRUE Once a teen attempts suicide, he/she has a higher risk for attempting again. ANSWER: TRUE Teens who use drugs or alcohol are not at a greater risk for committing suicide. ANSWER: FALSE

Facts and Myths about Suicide If you ask a troubled friend if h/she is suicidal, you will be planting the idea in his/her head. ANSWER: FALSE Reckless driving or doing dangerous things that could lead to death might be a sign that a teen is having thoughts of suicide or unclear whether they want to live. ANSWER: TRUE

Facts and Myths about Suicide Suicide is the third most common cause of death among adolescents and young adults in the US ANSWER: TRUE There are no warning signs before a suicide takes place. ANSWER: FALSE Once a teen is suicidal, he/she is suicidal forever ANSWER: FALSE

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

Causes of Suicidal Behavior Relationships Individual  Depression, hopelessness anxiety  drugs and/or alcohol use Home School Family conflicts/fights Death/divorce Abuse Rejection Failing grades Suspension School pressures Conflict and/or break-ups Pregnancy Bullying Rejection

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

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

What is NOT Helpful 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 Helpful Show You Care--Listen carefully  “ I ’ m concerned about you... about how you feel. ” Ask the Question--Be direct but caring & non-confrontational  “ Are you thinking about suicide? ” Get Help--Do not leave him/her alone  “ You ’ re not alone. Let me help you. ”

Resources for Help School counselor Crisis telephone hot-lines: SUICIDE or TALK Physicians/health care providers Mental health counselor Parents Clergy Coaches, teachers, youth leaders