Teen suicide prevention, tips for teachers and parents.
The teen suicide rate has increased in the last couple years. It is important for both teachers and parents to get informed of the leading facts and causes of teen suicide, so such cases could be prevented.
The Facts
- There are twice as many deaths due to suicide than HIV/AIDS.
- Between 1952 and 1995, suicide in young adults nearly tripled.
- For young people 15-24 years old, suicide is the third leading cause of death.
- Over half of all suicides are completed with a firearm.
- An average of one person dies by suicide every 16.2 minutes
- 80% of people that seek treatment for depression are treated successfully.
The Causes
- Bipolar disorder
- Borderline personality disorder
- Depression
- Drug or alcohol use
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
- Stressful life issues, such as serious financial or relationship problems
The Warning Signs
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself.
- Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun.
- Feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
- Recent loss or stressful event
- Feeling like a burden to others.
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
- Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
- Sleeping too little or too much.
- Displaying extreme mood swings.
- Having history of suicide or mental illness
- Previous Suicide attempts
Prevention Tips
Get professional help.
- Call a help crisis line
- Locate a treatment facility nearby
- Seek a mental health professional.
Encourage positive lifestyle changes,
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Get rest
- Exercise and get outside
- Follow up on medication as directed
Make a safety plan.
- Remove potential suicide weapons
- Keep medications locked
- Develop a stress relieve mechanism
- Keep contact numbers close and available
Continue your support.
- Constantly stay in contact
- Call and check in
- Drop by often
- Let them know you are available
Sources
www.helpguide.org/mental/suicide_prevention.htm