Suicide is not chosen; it happens
when pain exceeds
resources for coping with pain.
Suicide rate in young people is increasing.
Suicide is uncommon in children under the age of 10.
There are many more attempted suicides than completed suicides.
Between 60 - 80% of youth have sought help within the previous month before the suicide.
There is an increased risk if the youth has a previous history of attempted suicide.
Many competed suicides are well planned.
Risk Factors:
Problems with school or the law.
Break-up of romance.
Unexpected pregnancy.
A stressful family life (having parents who are depressed or are substance abusers, or a family history of suicide)
Loss of security…fear of authority, peers, group or gang members.
Stress due to new situations; college or relocating to a new community.
Failing in school or failing to pass an important test.
Seriously injuring another person or causing another person’s death (example automobile accident.)
Major loss of a loved one, divorce in the family, a trauma.
Warning Signs:
Abrupt changes in personality.
Giving away possessions.
Previous suicide attempt.
Use of drugs and/or alcohol.
Change in eating pattern.
Significant weight change.
Insomnia/oversleeping.
Unwillingness/inability to communicate.
Depression.
Extreme or extended boredom.
Accident prone (carelessness).
Unusual sadness, loneliness, talk of wanting to die.
Neglect of work/appearance.
Rebelliousness.
Reckless behaviour.
Chronic pain, panic or anxiety.
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