LISD Suicide Awareness & Prevention Education

CARE-Care, Acknowledge, Respond, Encourage

Guidance & Counseling Dept.

Suicide …

cuts across age and ethnic groups, and socio-economic levels

“is the end result of a process, not the process itself.”

is a permanent solution to a temporary problem

is preventable

Myth vs. Fact Myth- No one can stop a suicide; it is

inevitable. Fact – Most suicides can be prevented. Myth – Confrontation increases the risk. Fact – No research supports this belief. Myth -Only experts can prevent

attempts. Fact – Suicide is everyone’s business. Myth – Suicidal people are secretive. Fact – Suicidal people often express

their intent.

Be Aware of Feelings

Some of the feelings that a person with suicide ideation may experience include:

Can’t stop the pain. Can’t think clearly. Can’t make decisions. Can’t see any way out.

Be Aware of Feelings

Can’t get out of depression. Can’t see a future without

pain. Can’t see themselves as

worthwhile. Can’t seem to get control.

Warning Signs of Suicide

Seriously depressed Unusual neglect of personal

appearance Decline in school performance,

difficulty in concentrating or inattentiveness

Irritability, mood swings, disruptive or rebellious behavior

Withdrawal from family and/or friendships

Warning Signs of Suicide

High risk behavior, including accident proneness, running away from home

Alcohol and drug use Self-mutilation behaviors Giving away prized possessions Preoccupied with death or dying

Warning Signs of Suicide

Death or suicide themes dominate written, artistic, or creative work

Sense of hoplessness, worthlessness

Changes in behavior, appetite or sleep patterns

Major disappointment or humiliation, feelings of failure or having let parents or others down

Stressful Life Situations Loss of a loved one through death

or divorce Loss of a relationship Exposure to suicide, suicidal

behavior or violent death of family member or friend

Exposure to violence, including child abuse or rape

Stressful Life Situations

Feared pregnancy Dysfunctional family Poor communication with parents

Verbal Expression of Suicidal Intent or Depression

“I wish I were dead.” “I’m going to end it all.” “No one cares if I live or die.” “My family (or friends) will be better

off without me.” “I won’t be a problem much longer.” “I can’t take it anymore.” “It’s no

use.”

What Can You Do? Always take plans of suicide

seriously. Never promise to keep a secret. Be direct. Don’t be afraid to ask the

person if he/she is contemplating suicide.

Don’t act shocked. Remain calm. Don’t dare the person to do it. Don’t try to minimize the problem or

shame a person into changing his/her mind.

What Can You Do?

Acknowledge the person’s pain as legitimate. Reassure the person that help is available.

Remind the person that the problem is a temporary one.

Offer hope that there is a solution to the problem.

Take action. Get help. Refer the student to a school counselor (or nurse in the absence of a counselor). Never leave the student alone.

What Can You Do?

Let the student know that you CARE. (Care, Acknowledge, Respond, Encourage)

With support from parents, school administrators, counselors, and teachers and professional treatment, the child can return to a healthier path of development.

Help Is Available

School counselor, school nurse Church pastor, priest, minister Lifeline of Laredo, 722-5433 Border Region MHMR- 794-3000 Border Region MHMR, 1-800-448-

4663 (after 5:00 p.m.) CAPS – 794-3060 National Youth Crisis Hotline, 1-800- 643-1102 Mental Health professional

Protective Factors Family cohesion Cultural and religious beliefs that

discourage suicide and support self-preservation

Positive problem solving and coping skills

Involvement in school or community activities; school connectedness

Effective clinical care for mental, physical and substance abuse disorders.

The Journal of the American Medical Association has reported that 95% of all suicides occur at the peak of a depressive episode.

Education, recognition, and treatment are the keys to suicide prevention.

Show that you CARE (Care, Acknowledge, Respond, Encourage)

Sources American Foundation for Suicide

Prevention Suicide Awareness-Voices of

Education (SAVE) American Association of Suicidology National Mental Health Association National Center for Injury Prevention

and Control