Teen Suicide Prevention

TEEN SUICIDE

LET'S TALK ABOUT TEEN SUICIDE

A friend of a young suicide victim made the chillingly accurate observation that suicide is "a permanent solution to a temporary problem."

If you are in trouble, or if you know someone who is there is help. Talk to an adult you trust---a parent, your pastor, school counselor, or

CALL: 1.800.SUICIDE

 

If several of the statements below describes you or a friend, seek help by talking to a mental health professional or other trusted adult such as a parent, pastor or school counselor.

 

    • I am sleeping much later than I used to, I'm not sleeping well and wake up early In the morning, or I'm beginning to take a lot of naps.
    • My appetite has changed, and I've noticeably lost or gained weight.
    • I feel restless.
    • I have withdrawn from friends and famIly.
    • I can't concentrate very well.
    • I've lost Interest or pleasure In activities that I once enjoyed.
    • I feel hopeless or guilty.
    • I've had sudden mood or behavior changes;
    • I used to be quiet and now I am hyperactive; or once I was outgoing and now I'm withdrawn.
    • I feel that life Isn't worth living
IF A FRIEND IS IN TROUBLE???

Most people who are depressed or who are thinking about suicide don't or won't talk about how they are feeling. They feel worthless. They have no hope. They deny their emotions or think that talking about their emotions will be a "burden" on others because no one cares. Or they are afraid others will make fun of them.

That's understandable, because when someone mentions suicide, others may treat it as a joke or deny it. Those reactions only make the problem worse. So, if a friend or relative brings up the subject, take it seriously and take some time to talk about it.

You can help save a life!

PRAYER

Lord, I'm lost, confused and weak.
This fiery pain seems more than I can carry.
I am drowning---help me find a way.
Dear Lord, you have a purpose for me.
Let me see the way that you have prepared for me.

BIBLE VERSES

"Cease striving and know that I am God"
Psalm 46:10

"Casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7)

"God whispers in our pleasures, but shouts in our pain"
C.S. Lewis