Adolescent Suicide Prevention: You can help save a young life
Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for teens and young adults in the United States. Approximately one in five children and youths experience a serious mental health concern associated with trauma, social isolation or bullying, yet only 20% of them receive help.
Get Help for a Young Person
Knowing the warning signs and how to help can help save lives. Warning signs can include:
- Self-destructive behavior, such as increased drug or alcohol use
- Anxiety, agitation, irritability, aggression, recklessness
- Sleeplessness or sleeping too much
- Depression or mood swings
- Loss of interest
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Talking about dying or wanting to die
TEEN SUICIDE IS PREVENTABLE
If a young person in your life is showing signs of distress, do not hesitate to ask them whether they’re having suicidal thoughts. Studies show that asking them directly about suicide will not increase their risk or plant the idea. Instead, it shows that you care enough to offer support. Listen and engage in a caring, concerned, supportive manner.
Be a Hero for Zero Youth Suicides. If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call or chat 988.
You can help save a life. Get help for a young person in your life who may be struggling with a mental health issue. Call 866-629-3471 or visit us at midwest-center.com to learn more.