1. TEEN SUICIDE
JUNIOR HEALTH 2011

2. FACTS ABOUT TEEN SUICIDE
Suicide claims the lives of nearly 6,000 teenagers every year in the United States.
Third leading cause of death among young people ages 15 to 24.
Suicide kills teenagers nearly six times more often than murder does.

3. TEEN SUICIDE SYMPTOMS
Many feelings linked to suicide are similar to those of depression.
Potential victims often feel alone, hopeless, or rejected.
Any humiliation in front of family or friends makes everything worse.

4. TEEN SUICIDE SYMPTOMS A change in eating & sleeping patterns
Drug & Alcohol Abuse
Withdrawal from regular activities
Neglect of one’s personal appearance
Rebellious behavior, violence, even running away
Noticeable change in personality
A drop in grades and quality of school work

5. TEEN SUICIDE VERBAL HINTS
“ It’s no use.”
“ I won’t see you again.”
“ I won’t be a problem for you much longer.”
“ Nothing matters anymore.”
“I want to KILL myself.”
“I’m going to commit suicide.”

6. OTHER FACTS ABOUT TEEN SUICIDE
Ethnically, whites make up the highest percentage of teenage suicides, but the incidence of suicide among black males is increasing.
Young people who have attempted suicide or who talk about it are at greater risk of future attempts.
Teens who abuse drugs and/or alcohol are at greater risk than non-abusers.
A family history of suicide is a significant risk factor.
Growing evidence suggests that genetics may play a role in teen suicide.
Other studies show a persons biological make up may be a factor.

7. Take the person seriously
WHAT DO I DO?
Reassure him/her that there are people who can and want to help, including yourself.
Do not lecture or point out the reasons for living.
Take the person seriously
Do not make jokes or deny what someone else might be saying.
Listen. Really listen to what the person has to say.

8. BE AWARE!
Signs of Suicide: Friends for Life (Video One Female)
Signs of Suicide: Friends for Life (Video One Male)
Teen Suicide Awareness
VIDEO CLIPS
Suicide Awareness: Adam’s Song
Teen Suicide Awareness #2

9. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (National Organization)
WHERE CAN I FIND HELP?
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
(National Organization)
120 Wall St. 22nd Floor
New York, New York 10005
FAX:
TOLL-FREE: AFSP
PHONE:
NEW JERSEY CHAPTER
c/o Peggy Farrell
11 Datchet Close
Freehold, NJ 07728