Depression, Suicide and Teens

1. Depression, Suicide and Teens Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem

2. 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….

3. 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

4. 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.

5. Bullying and Suicide Elevated rates of depression, suicidal ideation and suicide attempts have been found in youth who are bullied and also in those who bully others. It is important to remember: Bullying does not cause suicide, but it may put youth who are already vulnerable at an increased risk for self-harm.

6. Bullying and Suicide Pre-existing vulnerability Victimization Invites Results in Depression, Decreased self-esteem, Decreased self-worth, Feelings of Entrapment, Loneliness, Withdrawal, Anxiety, Insomnia, Hopelessness… (New symptoms and/or exacerbations or previous symptoms) Suicidal Ideation Suicide Attempt Death by Suicide Which are risk factors for The American Association of Suicidology (AAS) illustrates the “Victimization-Suicidality Pathway”:

7. What Should I Look for in a Friend or Family Member? RISK FACTORS Access to weapons Substance Abuse History of impulsive or aggressive behavior Bizarre thoughts, hallucinations or actions Family history of suicide Previous suicide attempts SIGNS • 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

8. What Can I Do To Help??? REACH OUT AND TALK TO SOMEONE Guidance counselors Family doctors Clergy or Youth Ministers Coaches SHARE YOUR CONCERNS WITH PEOPLE WHO CARE • Parents • Teachers • Social Workers • School Nurse • Close relatives or friends

9. A First Step…. Social Work Office is room 128 • If you or someone you know needs help, your first step should be to call us: • Ms. Laravee 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.