Everyone plays a part in suicide prevention. A simple, ‘I am concerned about how you are feeling’, can make all the difference.
This week (September 10-16) is National Suicide Prevention Week. Each year over 44,000 Americans die by suicide. Every single day there are over 5,000 suicide attempts by young people grades 7-12. Four out of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warning signs. Knowing how to recognize these signs is the first step in taking action that could save someone’s life.
Suicide Warning Signs
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
- Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to other
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings
If you have noticed these warning signs in a friend or child, or just need to talk, please utilize the resources below.
1. Be prepared! We encourage everyone to print this card and carry it with you at all time
2. Text for help! Crisis Text Line - Text “HELLO” to 741-741
3. Call for help!
National Suicide Hotline
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
The Trevor Lifeline
MCOT – Mobile Crisis Outreach Team
In addition to the resources listed above, we recommend that all Westlake students and parents download the
A Friend Asks app. This user-friendly app provides information on the warning signs of suicide, mental health illness, and how to access help.
Remember you can be the one to help #StopSuicide!
Finally, just a reminder that there is lots of support at school. We are lucky to have a clinical intern from UT joining us all year, Elizabeth Sterling. Contact us at any time!
Stay Healthy, Chaps!
Kristi, Katie, and Elizabeth