Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem

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….

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

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 3rd leading cause of death for 15-24 year olds and the 4th leading cause of death for 10-14 year olds.

Elevated rates of depression, suicidal ideation and suicide attempts have been found in youth who are bullied and also in those who bully others.

It is important to remember: Bullying does not cause suicide, but it may put youth who are already vulnerable at an increased risk for self-harm.

Bullying and Suicide

The American Association of Suicidology (AAS) illustrates the “Victimization-Suicidality Pathway”:

Bullying and Suicide

Pre-existing vulnerability

Victimization

Depression, Decreased self-esteem,Decreased self-worth, Feelings of

Entrapment, Loneliness, Withdrawal,Anxiety, Insomnia, Hopelessness…

(New symptoms and/or exacerbations orprevious symptoms)

Suicidal IdeationSuicide AttemptDeath by Suicide

Invites

Results in

Which are riskfactors for

SIGNS

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

RISK FACTORS

Access to weapons Substance Abuse History of impulsive or

aggressive behavior Bizarre thoughts,

hallucinations or actions Family history of suicide Previous suicide attempts

SHARE YOUR CONCERNS WITH PEOPLE WHO CARE

Parents Teachers Social Workers School Nurse Close relatives or friends

REACH OUT AND TALK TO SOMEONE

Guidance counselors Family doctors Clergy or Youth Ministers Coaches

If you or someone you know needs help, your first step should be to call us: Ms. Laravee 630-570-8572 Mr. Kupres 630-570-8576 Mrs. Plantz 630-570-8574 Mr. McMahon 630-570-8573

We can help you find resources available in the community for children, adolescents and adults

REMEMBER, THERE IS ALWAYS HELP. THERE IS ALWAYS HOPE.

A First Step….

Social Work Office is room

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