The Facts About Teen Suicide

Aug 29, 2014 | Bullying | Cyberbullying, Children, Health, Youth & Teens

 Information courtesy of kids.gov, samhsa.gov, cdc.gov.

Did you know?

  • According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), in 2010, suicide was the second leading cause of death for ages 10-24.
  • More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease, combined.
  • Each day in our nation there are an average of over 5,400 suicide attempts by young people grades 7-12.
  • Four out of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warning signs.

September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. Here are resources for teens, parents and teachers to recognize the danger signs and how to get help:

Q: What are some of the risk factors for suicide?

A: Risk factors vary with age, gender, or ethnic group.  They may occur in combination or change over time. Some important risk factors are:

  • Depression and other mental disorders
  • Substance-abuse disorder (often in combination with other mental disorders)
  • Prior suicide attempt
  • Family history of suicide
  • Family violence including physical or sexual abuse
  • Firearms in the home
  • Incarceration
  • Exposure to suicidal behavior of others, such as family members or peers

However, it is important to note that many people who have these risk factors are not suicidal.

Q: What are signs to look for?

A: The following are some of the signs you might notice in yourself or a friend that may be reason for concern.

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
  • Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
  • Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Withdrawing or feeling isolated
  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
  • Displaying extreme mood swings.

Seeking help is a sign of strength, if you are concerned, go with your instincts, get help!

Q: What can I do for myself or someone else?

A: If you are concerned, immediate action is very important. Suicide can be prevented and most people who feel suicidal demonstrate warning signs. Recognizing some of these warning signs is the first step in helping yourself or someone you care about.
 
suicide prevention lifeline logo
**If you are in crisis and need help: call this toll-free number, available 24 hours a day, every day 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You will reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline , a service available to anyone. You may call for yourself or for someone you care about and all calls are confidential. You can also visit the Lifeline’s website at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org .
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