1. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem

2. Occasional sadness or bad moods are common in adolescence… HOWEVER… major depression limits a teenager’s ability to function normally. The good news is that depression is a treatable illness. It’s NOT a weakness or moral failure. It also tends to run in families….

3.  5 or more of the following symptoms consistently present for two weeks or more. ◦ Feelings of hopelessness, sadness, anger or guilt ◦ Loss of interest in activities that used to be fun ◦ Isolation from friends/family ◦ School performance slips ◦ Headaches, stomach aches or chronic pain ◦ Difficulty controlling emotions ◦ Inability to concentrate ◦ Decreased or increased appetite ◦ Lack of energy/Sleeping too much or too little ◦ Thoughts about death or suicide

4.  Risk factors for suicide in teens: ◦ Depression ◦ Alcohol or drug abuse ◦ Aggressive behavior/disruption disorder  Risks of suicide among people with depression is 30 times that of the general population!!!  Suicide is the 3 rd leading cause of death for 15-24 year olds and the 4 th leading cause of death for 10-14 year olds.

5. SIGNSRISK FACTORS  Talking about wanting to die  Irritability in teens  Unusual neglect of personal hygiene  Saying things like, “the world would be better without me around”  Giving away personal possessions  Sudden, dramatic IMPROVEMENT in mood  Access to weapons  Substance Abuse  History of impulsive or aggressive behavior  Bizarre thoughts, hallucinations or actions  Family history of suicide  Previous suicide attempts

6. SHARE YOUR CONCERNS WITH PEOPLE WHO CARE REACH OUT AND TALK TO SOMEONE  Parents  Teachers  Social Workers  School Nurse  Close relatives or friends  Guidance counselors  Family doctors  Clergy or Youth Ministers  Coaches

7.  If you or someone you know needs help, your first step should be to call us: ◦ Ms. Beach 630-570-8572 ◦ Mr. Kupres630-570-8576 ◦ Mrs. Plantz630-570-8574 ◦ Mr. McMahon630-570-8573  We can help you find resources available in the community for children, adolescents and adults  REMEMBER, THERE IS ALWAYS HELP. THERE IS ALWAYS HOPE.