Peer Pressure

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Teen Suicide Prevention
By Lora Oehlberg
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What is teen suicide?

• Suicide is when someone willingly takes their own
  life
• Suicide is the third leading cause of death of
  people aged 15-24

But how do you know if it could happen to someone
you know?
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Take Jill and Tim, for example...
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Jill, Tims friend, may be considering suicide
since she...
Has trouble eating or sleeping Has attempted
suicide before Has had recent severe losses Takes
unnecessary risks
Gives away prized possessions Talks about
committing suicide Is preoccupied with death and
dying Increases their use of alcohol or drugs

• Makes out a will and final arrangements
• Experiences drastic changes in behavior
• Loses interest in their personal appearance
• Loses interest in hobbies, work, school, etc.
• Withdraws from friends and/or social activities

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What should Tim do?
Be non-judgmental. Dont debate whether suicide
is right or wrong, or feelings are good or bad.
Dont lecture on the value of life.
Become available. Show interest, support.
Offer hope that alternatives are available but do
not offer glib reassurance.
Dont be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
Be willing to listen. Allow and accept
expressions of feelings.
Dont act shocked. This will put distance between
you.
Take action. Remove means, such as guns or
stockpiled pills.
Dont dare him or her to do it.
Be direct. Talk openly about suicide.
Get help from persons or agencies specializing in
crisis intervention and suicide prevention.
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• Cant see yourself as worthwhile

• Cant get someones attention

You could be suicidal if you feel like you...

• Cant seem to get control

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Coping strategies for teens...

• Spend time with your family and friends
• Try to be open with your feelings
• Read books and subjects that uplift you
• Eat right!
• Get involved with after-school activities
• Think and plan your future
• Laugh-keep your sense of humor

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If you are, or know someone who is suicidal
GET HELP!
Contact...

• A community mental health agency
• A private therapist or counselor
• A school counselor or psychologist
• A family physician
• A suicide prevention or crisis center

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Sources of this presentation...

• www.yellowribbon.org
• Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program, hosts
  of National Yellow Ribbon Week
• www.suicideinfo.ca
• Suicide information and education center, a
  Canadian sponsored site
• www.suicidology.org
• American Association of Suicidology
• And
• www.altavista.com
• graphics