Often people who are contemplating ending their lives will give signals or signs of their intent. One sign alone does not mean that a person is suicidal. Several signs at one time, however, may mean that person is seeking help. A few signs are:

• Verbal suicide threats

• Previous suicide attempts

• Personality changes (unusual withdrawal, aggression or moodiness)

• Depression (changes in normal appetite, sleep disturbances, sudden drop in school performance, etc.)

• Final arrangements (making a will, giving away prized possessions)

• Themes on death, depression and suicide in student's writings and artwork

• A dramatic shift in the quality of school work

• Loss of friends

 

RESOURCES IN YOUR SCHOOL

• Principal

• Teachers

• Counselors

• Nurse

• Social Worker

• AEA Representative

 

YOU are in a strategic position to identify and get help for the suicidal teenager.

REMEMBER, SUICIDE CAN BE PREVENTED.