
The Warning Signs

It is especially tragic that the three leading causes of death in teens and young adults -- accident, homicide, and suicide -- all are preventable. Parents, family and friends of teens should be aware of some of the warning signs of depression and suicide.
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Withdrawal from friends and family members
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Trouble in romantic relationships
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Difficulty getting along with others
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Changes in the quality of schoolwork or lower grades
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Rebellious behaviors
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Unusual gift-giving or giving away own possessions
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Appearing bored or distracted
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Writing or drawing pictures about death
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Running away from home
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Changes in eating habits
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Dramatic personality changes
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Changes in appearance (for the worse)
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Sleep disturbances
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Drug or alcohol abuse
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Talk of suicide, even in a joking way
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Having a history of previous suicide attempts
Preventing Suicide
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Each one of us can play a vital role in ensuring that all young people are provided with safe, accepting and supportive environments at home, at school and in their communities. You can be a mental illness lifeguard by understanding how to help youth in crisis and communicating to them that support is always available if they need it.
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Complete suicide prevention training (QPR-Question, Persuade, Refer)
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Display a mental health awareness ribbon in your home, car or work space to let people know you are available for support
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Practice listening to understand, not to respond.
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Learn how to help by asking questions like:​
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"What is something that triggers discomfort for you?"​​​
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"What types of physical and emotional changes happen to you when you are triggered?"
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"What is something we can do together to help you feel better?"​
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"What type of activity helps you feel calm or relaxed?"
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Reducing Risks

There are many ways to lower someone’s risk of suicide, such as having:
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Easy access to effective, culturally competent care
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Support from medical and mental health care professionals
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Coping, problem solving and conflict resolution skills
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Restricted access to highly lethal means of suicide (e.g. firearms)
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Strong connections to family members
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Being connected to safe schools
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Academic, artistic, athletic achievements
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Nonviolent problem solving and conflict resolution
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Family acceptance for their sexual orientation and/or gender identity
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A feeling of safety, support and connectivity at school through peer groups like Gay-Straight Alliances
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Positive connections with friends who share similar interests
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Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide
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Positive role models and self esteem