Suicide Prevention Resources

Definitions:

  • Suicidal ideation = refers to thinking about, considering, or planning suicide 

  • Suicide attempt = non-fatal, self-directed, potentially injurious behavior with intent to die

  • Suicide = death caused by self-directed injurious behavior with intent to die

Risk Factors for Youth Suicide:

  • Mental Illness such as Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Conduct Disorder

  • Social isolation and interpersonal difficulties 

  • Disruption to the family, divorce, deportation 

  • Loss and Grief 

  • Poor Coping Skills

  • Cognitive Deficits

  • Exposure to abuse (physical, mental, sexual), domestic violence

  • Involvement in the legal and/or foster system 

Warning Signs of Suicide:

  • Suicidal ideology: talking, texting, writing, drawing about death and suicide

  • Looking for ways to kill self, practicing

  • Fall in school performance 

  • Severe worry or anxiety, school refusal 

  • Marked changes in sleeping, eating habits, and/or physical complaints

  • Alcohol and/or drug use

  • Withdrawal from friends and/or family

  • Dramatic mood changes, rage, uncontrolled anger

  • Risk-taking behavior 

  • Feelings of hopelessness

  • Bullying and cyber-bullying

What Can Parents Do?

  • Know the warning signs and risk factors 

  • Talk to your child about depression and suicide 

  • Be willing to listen to their concerns and take all concerns seriously 

  • Teach your child to tell a trusted adult if they or another child show signs of suicide

  • Support school suicide prevention efforts such as Riding the Waves and Signs of Suicide (SOS)

  • If there is reason to be concerned, tell your school social worker, psychologist, counselor, nurse, and/or pediatrician

Additional Resources for Parents/Students: