Suicide Prevention

Brought to you by: North Kitsap Lifesavers

True or False?

Signs and Symptoms

• Irritability• Anxiety• Isolation• Physical Complaints• Poor performance• Recent Loss• Talking/thinking about “no hope” or death

Possible Impacts of Depression

Causes of Suicidal BehaviorIndividual

•Depression, hopelessness, anxiety•Drugs and/or alcohol use

School

•Failing grades•Suspension•School pressures

Home

•Family conflicts/fights •Death/ Divorce•Abuse

Relationships

•Break up with girlfriend/ boyfriend•Pregnancy•Bullying •Physical Abuse

How Some “Escape”

You or a Friend?

Progression

The Cycle to Break

1. Stress/ dramatic event(s)2. Depression

3. Suicidal Thoughts4. Suicide Attempts

5. Death

What NOT To Do & What Is NOT Helpful

Never act shocked• “Really?! I would never expect you to feel that way.”

•Never suggest negative alternatives• “Lets go party this weekend and you will forget all about it.”

• Never deal with these feelings on your own• “If I care enough they will begin to feel better…”• “ I will just tough it out and things will begin to improve.”

•Ignoring or dismissing the issue• “Oh, lets talk about something else.”• You’ll meet another girl and forget about this one, you’re a great guy.”

•Acting shocked or embarrassed • “You aren’t REALLY thinking of suicide, are you?”

•Challenging or debating• “So go ahead; see if things really do get better.”• “Don’t you know it is wrong to kill yourself?”

What IS Helpful?

• Show You Care—Listen carefully“I’m concerned about you….About how you

feel.”• Ask the question while showing you care!

“Are you thinking about suicide?”

Get Help

ASK THE QUESTIONBe direct in a caring, non-confrontational way.•“Are you thinking about suicide?”

GET HELPDo not leave him/her alone*”I know where we can get some help.”*”I can go with you to where we can get some help.”*”You’re not alone. Let me help you.”

Resources for Help

• School Counselor• Crisis telephone hot-

line• Physicians/health care

providers

• Mental health specialist • Teachers/Coaches

and/or Parents• Clergy/Youth Leaders

Who to callWho to call• (360) 479-3033 (local)• 800-843-4793 (Toll Free

if you are outside the local calling area)

• 1-800 SUICIDE (national crisis line)

• 1-800-273-TALK (national crisis line)