If you or a friend need to talk with a counselor for help or for resources available in your area, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at:
1-800-273-TALK (8255),
A free, 24-hour hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Your call will be routed to the nearest crisis center to you.
Warning Signs
Four out of five teens who attempt suicide give clear warning signs.
Warning Signs of suicidal ideation include, but are not limited, to the following:
-
Talking about suicide
-
Making statements about feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless
-
A deepening depression
-
Preoccupation with death
-
Taking unnecessary risks or exhibiting self-destructive behavior
-
Out of character behavior
-
A loss of interest in the things one cares about
-
Visiting or calling people one cares about
-
Making arrangements; setting one’s affairs in order
-
Giving prized possessions away
Along with these warning signs, there are certain Risk Factors that can elevate the possibility of suicidal ideation.
-
Perfectionist personalities
-
Gay and Lesbian youth
-
Learning disabled youth
-
Loners
-
Youth with low self- esteem
-
Depressed youth
-
Students in serious trouble
-
Abused, Molested or Neglected Youth
-
Genetic predisposition
-
Parental history of violence, substance abuse, or divorce
Students
You can make a difference and help us fight the “Silent Epidemic” of youth suicide.
Below is a list of things you can do in your own community to make a difference.
-
Educate yourself about the magnitude of the problem, the signs of concern and the tools of prevention. You can educate yourself by visiting our Rascal Flatts B1 Project and take the pledge at www.rascalflattsb1.com. Encourage your friends to take the pledge and B1 too.
-
Be there for a friend by being observant, asking questions, listening, responding and get help for your friend.
-
Never keep a friends suicidal thoughts to yourself. Know who you can turn to for help and guidance such as a parent, teacher, coach or a trusted adult to seek professional help.
-
Encourage your school to hold a suicide prevention week.