1. Unit #2
Emotional
and
Mental Health
Preventing Suicide

2. Suicide The act of intentionally taking one’s own life
Suicidal mindset- the feeling that suicide is the only solution to the problems of living

3. Ten Facts about Suicide
Usually people who commit suicide have thought about it for a long time
Most people who commit suicide have not thought to talk about it
People who have suicidal thoughts will feel relieved that someone cares enough to ask and listen to their problems
A suicide attempt is usually a cry for help
A suicidal person who suddenly becomes calm probably has decided to commit suicide

4. Facts about Suicide
People who drink or do drugs are considered to be at a higher risk of suicide
People who want to commit suicide aren’t always mentally ill
Many people who want to commit suicide only want it for a brief period
Suicide is a behavior, and cannot be passed down in genetic information
Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of teens in the U.S.

5. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem

6. Suicide: Warning Signs
Change in eating habits
Withdrawal from friends, family, and regular activities
Violent actions
Uses of drugs or alcohol
Unusual neglect of personal appearance
Personality change

7. Warning Signs of Suicide
Persistent boredom
Often complaints about physical symptoms
Giving away of favorite possessions
Loss of interest in pleasurable activities
Not tolerating praise or rewards

8. Students Who Are At Higher Risk
Teenagers who:
Have previously attempted suicide
Have little self esteem
In trouble with the law
Are suffering from depression
Have been abused, molested, neglected
Abuse drugs/alcohol
Perfectionists
Struggling with sexual orientation
Are in dysfunctional families
Are potential dropouts

9. Seeking Help When to seek help
Prolonged feeling of depression or hopelessness
A feeling that life is out of control
Difficulty getting along with family and friends
Intense fears
Persistence difficulty sleeping
Emotional problems coping with physical illness
Inability to stop destructive behavior