1. Getting help

2. When Help is needed
The 1st step to getting help, is being aware that there is a problem, and help is needed
Most adult who suffer from mental health disorders, have their past in untreated childhood problems
Most suicidal youths had symptoms of a mental disorder for more than a year prior to death
***Mental Illness usually strikes individuals during their adolescence and young adulthood***

3. Teens should seek help if they:
Feel trapped or worried all the time
Have feelings that affect sleep, eating habits, schoolwork, job performance, or relationships
Become involved with alcohol or other drugs
Become increasingly aggressive, violent, or reckless
Often families and friends are first to notice these things and should encourage the individual to seek help
***Almost 15 % of all teens will display some sign of depression****

4. Overcoming the stumbling blocks
Looking for help can be difficult, but these problems are not easily managed without help.
When asking for help remember these facts:
Asking for help is a sign of inner strength
Serious disorders, compulsions, and addictions are complex a need professional help
Sharing your thoughts with a helpful person can be a great relief
There is financial help if you need it for care

5. Where to go for help Talking with a trusted adult is a start Parent
Guardian
Teacher
Counselor
Principal
Coach
Can help provide information on where to guide you for the help that you need

6. Mental Health professionals
Counselor- A professional who handles personal and educational matters
School Psychologist- a professional who specializes in the assessment of learning, emotional, and behavioral problems of school aged kids
Psychiatrist- a physician who diagnoses and treats mental disorders and can prescribe medications

7. More Professionals
Neurologist- A physician who specializes in physical disorder of the brain and nervous system
Clinical psychologist- a professional who diagnoses and treats emotional and behavioral disorders with counseling
Psychiatric social worker- provides guidance and treatment for emotional problems

8. Treatment Methods
Psychotherapy- an ongoing communication between a patient and M.H.P. It is used to find the problem and make a solution
Behavior Therapy- focuses on changing unwanted behavior through rewards and reinforcements
Cognitive Therapy- designed to identify and correct distorted thinking patterns that lead to troublesome, self defeating or self-destructive behavior

9. More treatment methods
Family Therapy- Helps the family function in more positive and constructive ways
Group Therapy- treating a group of people who have similar problems and who meet regularly
Drug Therapy- use of certain medications to treat or reduce the symptoms of a mental disorder

10. Suicide Prevention Take each suicide threat seriously
Educate yourself and others on suicide
Remember this acronym: QPR
Question
Persuade
Refer