Teen Suicide Prevention Campaign
Suicide shouldn't
be a secret.
Know the warning signs.
Five warning signs for depression in teens:
- Feelings of sadness or hopelessness, often accompanied by anxiety.
- Declining school performance.
- Loss of pleasure/interest in social and sports activities.
- Sleeping too little or too much.
- Changes in weight or appetite.
Take action.
Three steps parents can take:
- Get your child help (medical or mental health professional).
- Support your child (listen, avoid undue criticism, remain connected).
- Become informed (library, local support group, Internet).
Three steps teens can take:
- Take your friend's actions seriously.
- Encourage your friend to seek professional help, accompany if necessary.
- Talk to an adult you trust. Don't be alone in helping your friend.
Tell someone, Tell anyone.
We need to get help for your friends.
Seeking professional help...
You can make a difference by helping those in need find a knowledgeable mental health professional.
- For clinical referrals, contact the American Psychological Association at 1-800-964-2000, or visit their website at helping.apa.org, then click on "Find a Psychologist."
- For a psychiatric referral, contact the American Psychiatric Association at 1-888-35-PSYCH (77924) or go to the website at www.psych.org, click on "Public Information," then click on "Choosing a Psychiatrist."
- For a crisis hotline directory, go to the American Association of Suicidology website at www.suicidology.org.
In an acute crisis...
Call 911 or take the person to an emergency room or walk-in clinic at a psychiatric hospital. Do not leave the person alone until help is available.
