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Depression, Suicide and Teens. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. What is Teenage Depression??. Occasional sadness or bad moods are common in adolescence… HOWEVER… major depression limits a teenager’s ability to function normally.
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Depression, Suicide and Teens Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem
What is Teenage Depression?? Occasional sadness or bad moods are common in adolescence… HOWEVER… major depression limits a teenager’s ability to function normally. The good news is that depression is a treatable illness. It’s NOT a weakness or moral failure. It also tends to run in families….
Symptoms of Teenage Depression • 5 or more of the following symptoms consistently present for two weeks or more. • Feelings of hopelessness, sadness, anger or guilt • Loss of interest in activities that used to be fun • Isolation from friends/family • School performance slips • Headaches, stomach aches or chronic pain • Difficulty controlling emotions • Inability to concentrate • Decreased or increased appetite • Lack of energy/Sleeping too much or too little • Thoughts about death or suicide
The Link Between Depression and Suicide • Risk factors for suicide in teens: • Depression • Alcohol or drug abuse • Aggressive behavior/disruption disorder • Risks of suicide among people with depression is 30 times that of the general population!!! • Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for 15-24 year olds and the 4th leading cause of death for 10-14 year olds.
What Should I Look for in a Friend or Family Member? • Talking about wanting to die • Irritability in teens • Unusual neglect of personal hygiene • Saying things like, “the world would be better without me around” • Giving away personal possessions • Sudden, dramatic IMPROVEMENT in mood • Access to weapons • Substance Abuse • History of impulsive or aggressive behavior • Bizarre thoughts, hallucinations or actions • Family history of suicide • Previous suicide attempts SIGNS RISK FACTORS
What Can I Do To Help??? • Parents • Teachers • Social Workers • School Nurse • Close relatives or friends • Guidance counselors • Family doctors • Clergy or Youth Ministers • Coaches SHARE YOUR CONCERNS WITH PEOPLE WHO CARE REACH OUT AND TALK TO SOMEONE
A First Step…. • If you or someone you know needs help, your first step should be to call us: • Ms. Beach 630-570-8572 • Mr. Kupres 630-570-8576 • Mrs. Plantz 630-570-8574 • Mr. McMahon 630-570-8573 • We can help you find resources available in the community for children, adolescents and adults • REMEMBER, THERE IS ALWAYS HELP. THERE IS ALWAYS HOPE.