Suicide+Awareness

In response to the tragic suicides that have affected our area in September 2012, Miss Munz (Health Teacher), Mrs. Vojtko (School Nurse), and myself spoke to BCCCS 7th and 8th graders about suicide awareness. Students were given suicide definitions, facts, myths, warning signs, and ways to get help for either themselves or a friend.

Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death among adolescents; with accidents and illness being the top two. Females are 3 to 5 times more likely toa ttempt suicide, but males are 4 to 5 times more likely to complete suicide. Researchers state the reasoning behind this is the method males choose to attempt suicide are more lethal than females, as well as males being less likely to seek help.

Adolescents' brains are often wired to act on impulse; therefore, most kids don't make up their mind to complete the suicide until the last possible moment.

75-80% of adolescents who attempt or complete suicide leave CLEAR hints and warning about their suicidal thoughts or intentions. These warning signs include:
 * Hopelessness
 * Rage, anger, seeking revenge
 * Engaging in risky activities; Increased drug/alcohol use
 * Dramatic changes in modd
 * Anxiety, inability to sleep, depression
 * Withdrawing from friends and/or family
 * Stating indicators of not being able to identify reasongs for living or seeing a purpose in life
 * "I don't want to wake up anymore"
 * "I wish this were all over"
 * "I shouldn't be here"
 * "I wish I could disappear forever"
 * Talking or writing about death or suicide (ex: artwork, Facebook status, etc.)
 * Giving away prized posessions
 * Losing interest in activities
 * Feeling excessive guilt or shame

GET HELP! You can help save a person's LIFE! Teencentral.net is a great tool for teens to be able to discuss their problems and dilemmas through and safe and secure website where real counselors respond to teens stories with advise and helpful tips to think about. Other kids who maybe have been in a similar situation or who just may have a word of advide can respond to stories as well. Everything is POSITIVE and FREE!
 * 1) Call 911
 * 2) 1-800-SUICIDE
 * 3) 1-800-273-TALK
 * 4) Visit [|www.teencentral.net]