1. Suicide Prevention

2. Adolescent Suicide in the United States
3rd leading cause of death in adolescents, nationwide
1 Accidents 2 Homicides 3 Suicide
2nd leading cause of death in the West
For every 2 people murdered, 3 youth
take their own life
Approximately 50% of deaths labeled “accidental” may actually be suicide

3. Adolescent Suicide
Approximately 12 young people die every day of suicide.
Every 2 hours and 2.5 minutes, a person under the age
of 25 commits suicide.
Suicide rates for are 300% higher than the 1950’s.
Firearms are the most commonly used method of suicide among youth - 3 of 5 completed suicides.
Black male youth have shown the largest increase in
suicide rates (180%)
Most suicides occur in the afternoon or evening and in
the teen’s home.

4. Adolescent Suicide in Utah
12th ranking among 50 states
Davis County has highest rate
1% were in treatment when they died and 2/3 were involved in the criminal justice system
3 females attempt for every male males are successful for every 1 female
More than 90% of youth who complete suicide suffer from mental illness.

5. Gender Differences
In an average classroom, one boy and three girls have attempted suicide in the past year.
Girls attempt three times as often as boys.
Boys complete three times more often than girls.
Girls tend to use less lethal methods (overdose, slit wrists).
Boys tend to use quicker and more lethal methods.
Girls tend to verbalize emotions, thus increasing suicidal intervention.
Boys tend to resort to avoidance and displacement, thus isolating themselves and increasing changes of explosive suicidal responses.

6. Environmental Warning Signs
Death
Terminal Illness
Divorce or Separation
Broken Relationships
Stress on Family
Loss of Health
Loss of Job, Home, Money, Status, Security.
Alcohol or Drug Abuse
Previous Attempts
Change in Environment

7. Behavioral Warning Signs
Depression
Hopelessness
Powerlessness
Worthlessness
Social Isolation
Declining Performance
Neglect of Personal Welfare
Alterations in Sleeping
Alterations in Eating
Statements
Planning
Reckless Behavior
Giving Away Possessions
Saying Goodbye
Ambiguous Behavior

8. Level 1 Risk
Suicidal ideas are inferred from behaviors that suggest such thoughts
If a youth talks about suicide methods, it must be assumed that he / she is serious
Such ideas / preparations may be indicative of possible violence toward others
Regardless of the situation, adults caring for youth must act immediately

9. Level 2 Risk
Suicidal gestures are self-destructive behaviors that call attention to the fact that a youth may be considering suicide
Distinction between suicide gestures and suicide attempts do not dictate whether there should be intervention, but rather how to intervene

10. Level 3 Risk
Suicide attempts are life-threatening behaviors that jeopardize life or give the appearance of such an attempt
Intervention is a must
Seek medical attention immediately

11. Level 4 Risk
Suicide completion represents tragic success of suicide attempt
Sometimes attempts turn into completions by mistake

12. Always react as though an attempt is potentially deadly and only determine the degree of seriousness after the child is safe

13. Youth Most Likely to Attempt
1. Extreme Attention Seekers
2. Status Seekers
3. Youth Under Stress Who Possess Limited Problem-Solving Skills
4. Youth Under Stress Who Have High Risk Profiles For Suicide

14. Staff Actions Take it Seriously!
Remember: Suicidal behavior is a cry for help.
Be willing to give and get help sooner rather than later.
Listen
Ask Questions
Monitor Constantly
Urge Professional Help
No Secrets!!!!!
Report, Report, Report
Talk to Therapists

15. Suicide Prevention
This training presentation is available for download at:
© 2007 Utah Youth Village.