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Suicide Prevention
Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 1-800-273-TALK
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Youth Suicide Warning Signs:
- A previous suicide attempt
- Current talk of suicide or making a plan
- Strong wish to die or a preoccupations with death
- Giving away prized possessions
- Signs of depressions, such as moodiness, hopelessness, withdrawal
- Increased alcohol and/or other drug use
- Hinting at not being around in the future or saying good-bye
What to do:
- Listen and express concern in a non judgmental way
- Trust your suspicions that your child may be in danger
- Take action! Get them connected to a professional
- Ask questions openly ("Do you have a plan to hurt yourself? Will you talk to someone who can help?")
- Show you care, stay calm and remove all potential methods for suicide such as guns, pills, etc.
- Take all threats seriously
- Stay with your child, don't leave them alone
Spark a meaningful conversation concerning the Netflix miniseries "13 Reasons Why":
13 Reasons Why, Talking Points for Parents:
13 Reasons Why: Talking Points5 Conversations to Have with Your Teen After 13 Reasons Why:
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/blog/5-conversations-to-have-with-your-teens-after-13-reasons-whySuicide Prevention Resources:
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention:
https://afsp.org/National Institute of Mental Health
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention/index.shtmlMental Health Association-Texas
http://www.mhatexas.org/