Suicide Prevention Week Kick-off
"Tomorrow Needs You"
800,000 people die by suicide globally each year. That's one person every 40 seconds. We recently learned that suicide rates in the U.S. have risen 25% in the past 20 years. And in the past decade, the suicide rate among young people ages 10-17 has increased by more than 70%. In honor of World Suicide Prevention Day September 10th, we're working to spread a message around the globe that so many need to hear "Tomorrow Needs You" The goal is to encourage honest conversations about suicide and share the ways in which we can work to prevent it, talk to a caring adult in your school, talke to a caring peer, just talk to someone, don't keep it inside.
9/10/18
As we reach out to others to let them know they are not alone when they are in distress, we are also reminded that we are not alone in our passion, concern, and work to prevent suicide in our communitites, workplaces and schools. We are working together to creat the world we would like to see - one conversation or interaction at a time.
Know the signes: Learn about warning signs of suicide. If someone is talking about killing themselves or making coments about not being around or eing a burden, take those comments seriously. Friends sometimes let friends know if they are thinking about suicide or dying. Other time, changes in behavior may show that someone is struggling. Know the signs.
9/11/18
Find the words: Start a conversation with someone you are concerned about, someone who may be having a tough time or is dealing with challenges in their lives. Pain isn't always obvious, so be the one to offer kind words and the gift of your time. Ask and then listen... Listen with empathy and provide support. A fight or breakup might not seem like a big deal, but for a young person it can feel immense. Sympathize and listen. Minimizing what your child or friend is going through can increase his or her sense of hopelessness.
9/12/18
Reach Out: Find out about the resources that are available, from cirsis lines to local behavioral health services. There is help, and hope. The more you know about what is available the more confident you will feel in supporting someone else, and the more likely you will be able to encourage them to reach out. Don't keep suicide a secret... If your friend is considering suicide, don't promise to keep it a secret. Tell him or her you can help, but you need to involve other people like a trusted adult. Neither of you have to face this alone.
9/13/18
How to Take Care of Yourself:
Ask for help: Don't be afraid to let your friends, family, or teachers know what you need when they ask; they want to help. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline any time - calls are confidential.
Make a Safety Plan: A safety plan can help guide you through difficult moments and keep you safe. Learn how to make your own.
Remember that this feeling can be overcome: Family conflice, relationships, grades, sexual identity, and the loss of important people can seem impossible to deal with. But with support from others, you can.
Evaluate the relationships in your life: Love and friendship are all about respect. Toxic or unhealthy relationships can negatively affect you. Whether you're dating or building new friendships, remember your rights. If you're being bullied, help is also available.
9/14/18
As World Suicide Prevention week comes to a close... Remember to know the signs, find the words, and reach out. Resources are out there. Suicide can be prevented. To learn more visit: www.eachmindmatters.org/SPW2018.
