Suicide Prevention
Suicide Prevention
Risk Factors:
- Previous suicide attempt(s)
- Isolation and aloneness
- Non-suicidal self-injury (e.g. cutting)
- Mental illness including depression, conduct disorder, and substance abuse
- Family stress/dysfunction
- Family history of suicide
- Environmental risks, including presence of a firearm in the home
- Situational crises
Warning Signs:
- Suicidal threats in the form of direct (e.g. "I am going to kill myself") and indirect (e.g. "I wish I could fall asleep and never wake up again") statements
- Suicide notes and plans (including online postings)
- Making final arrangements (e.g. giving away prized possessions)
- Preoccupation with death
- Changes in behavior, appearance, thoughts, and/or feelings
Protective Factors:
- Family and peer support
- School and community connectedness
- Healthy problem-solving skills
- Easy access to effective medical and mental health services
Resources:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or Text HOME to 741741
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/
- Spectrum Cares at 716-882-4357
- WNY Psychotherapy at 716-837-6705 press 2 or http://www.wnypsychotherapy.com/
- Trevor Project for Youth and LGBTQ: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/#sm.0001qngcnb7i5dr9ra71y5yarpnrg
- "What to Do if You're Worried About Suicide" from Child Mind Institute
Information taken from National Association of School Psychologists website: https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources/school-safety-and-crisis/preventing-youth-suicide