Warning Signs of Suicide and Ways to Prevent

Most Suicides can be prevented. Most people hang in the balance between "I really, really want to die" and " I really, really want to live". These are the typical risk indicators for suicide:

* A history of developmental problems
* Escalating family problems
* Acute experience of separation and loss
* Feelings of rejection and being unwanted
* Chronic communication problems
* Obvious and abrupt behavior changes
* Sustained extreme moodiness and withdrawal
* Repeated involvement in high-risk behaviors
* Abuse of alcohol and other drugs
* Medically undiagnoseded physical complaints
* Perfectionism
* Despair
* Suicidal notes
* Suicidal language such as "I'd be better off dead" " You won't have to worry about me much longer" or  "No one cares if I'm around, I'll just end it all"
* Giving away treasured items
* Sudden, unexplained extravagant emotional elevation in the mood of a chronically depressed person, which may mask a suicidal intention.

If you observe any of these behavior in combination, acknowledge the person's pain and ask if they are frustrated  to the point that they have considered hurting themselves. If the answer is "yes" ask if they are actively considering killing themselves.

If you have the slightest reason to believe the person's use of suicidal language may be serious, use these series of questions to explore the  level of risk.

S. L.A.P.
S- Specific Details - Do they have a plan? a place? a time? a method?

L- Lethality of Method- Does the method indicate a clear desire to die? ( guns, jumping, and hanging are frequently lethal)

A- Availability of Method- If they have a method, do they have access to the method ( ie. are there guns around the house?)

P- Proximity to Helping Resources - Does the plan involve a place where the teen can't be interrupted? Is there anyone they thing would want to stop them if they tried?

If you believe the risk is immediate, DON'T leave the teen alone! Call for reinforcements immediately!

Hotlines
1-800-SUICIDE
1-800-273-TALK
1-877-YOUTHLINE

Taken from OUTREACH, INC  " Handling the Tough Stuff"