Suicide Flashcards
How many adolescents attempt suicide yearly?
~2 million
How many adolescents receive medical attention for their suicide attempt?
~700,000
How many children aged 10-19 complete suicide?
~2,000
What can lead to suicide in children and adolescents?
Mental illness/disorder (90%) Abuse (family, home, school) Bullying at school Death of loved one or friend Divorce, separation and family stress Loss of health (real or perceived)
Marginalized group struggles (LGBTQ+) Hopelessness, feeling trapped or drifting Impaired relationships with parent(s) Life stressors (loss, problems, issues) Exposure to suicide Family history Lack of involvement or community
What are warning signs, or risk factors, of suicidal behavior in youth?
Withdrawal from friends and family Frequent complains of aches and pains, fatigue Marked and significant change in personality Violent actions, rebelling, running away Drug and alcohol use Loss of interest in activities Unusual self-neglect Persistent issues in concentration, boredom (can show up as decline in schoolwork or grades) Not tolerating praise or rewards Access to weapons (guns) Prior suicide attempt Co-occurring disorder
What is one of the most effective suicide prevention strategies?
Education on how to identify and effectively respond to the warning signs of suicidal behavior. This lowers risk factors.
What are other effective suicide prevention strategies, besides education?
Screenings (mental health / suicide risk)
Parent therapy and support
What disorders are strong associated with youth suicide?
Mood disorders
Conduct/antisocial disorders
Substance abuse
What are ways that you can be helpful if someone tells you they’re contemplating suicide?
- Take it seriously.
- Listen to the person. Accept the feelings. Stay supportive, calm and open.
- Talk directly about suicide. Ask questions (Are you thinking about ____?) in real terms.
- Do not leave the person alone. Offer to call a hotline with them, or drive them to the hospital. Accompany them to a safe place for them. If not in person, urge to seek professional help or call a hotline.
- Seek help. Do not try to do it alone. Call someone.
What are suicidal behaviors to watch out for suicide in general?
Previous suicide attempts Explicit/direct statements of suicidal thoughts and feelings Talking about death or suicide Talking about specific plans for suicide or rehearsal Sharing that they have no reason to live Talking about burdening others Talking about feeling trapped Talking about being in unbearable pain Self-inflicted injuries or head banging Reckless behavior Inappropriately saying 'goodbye' Visiting people to say goodbye Giving away important items or things Statements of permanent leaving or of removing self as burden to worry about Loss of interest, pleasure or enjoyment Suddenly feeling much better/happier for no reason Expressing worthlessness Severe depression, guilt, hopelessness Substance abuse Planning how to
