By: Reagan Welch
Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death among teenagers. Suicide does not have only one cause. It can be because of things like substance abuse, alcohol, or untreated depression; all lead to a higher risk of suicide.
There are warning signs to suicide that can help you keep your friends safe, and warn you if they are a danger to themselves. According SAVE.org some of the most common warnings are;
- Talking about dying or killing themselves
- Coming up with scenarios about how they would do it
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose in life
- Talking about feeling trapped or being in a lot of pain (mentally)
- Feeling as if they are a burden
- Increasing their intake of drugs or alcohol
- Extra anxious, agitated, or reckless
- Not getting enough sleep or sleeping way to much
- Withdrawn from themselves and reality
- Feeling isolated or isolating themselves from others
- Showing more rage than normal, wanting revenge on certain people
- Extreme mood swings
The best way to prevent suicide is to recognize these signs and understand how to respond to them. If you spot any of the signs listed above in your friends or family, try and recommend other alternatives, show that you care, and if you think necessary, get them professional help.
According to Helpguide.org, 2 tips for prevention are:
- Do not hesitate to speak up if you are worried
- Respond quickly in the crisis and try your very best to evaluate the situation on its level of immediate danger
If you, or someone you know is thinking of committing suicide, please call 1-800-273-8255. It is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number, to help you when in crisis.
Plaid Line 