2. Why do I need to know?
• Youth suicide is the 2nd (or 3rd depending on
the research) leading case of death among 15-
19 year olds.
• There is one suicide every 90 minutes in the
United States.
• About 4,000-5,000 young people commit
suicide each year in the United States.
• For every child that commits suicide another
100 attempt suicide.
3. Hospital Discharge Data
Maryland Health Services
Cost Review Commission
Youth who were hospitalized and survived:
Youngest – age 5
Majority – white
Over 70% - female
4. It is estimated that 4 of 5 suicide
victims demonstrated identifiable
warning signs before completing
suicide.
We need to be knowledgeable
about warning signs and
potential triggers.
5. What do I need to know?
• Warning Signs
– Threats
– Drawing or writings related to the student’s
own death
– High risk behaviors
– Dramatic changes in behavior
– Previous suicide attempts
– Giving away prized possessions
6. Behaviors
• Changes in behaviors
– Changes in friends
– Changes in attitude
– Change in motivation
– Depression
– Depression that changes to happiness
suddenly
– Anger
7. Issues that may affect suicide
• Bullying
• Multiple losses
• Feeling that they might have “let someone
down”
• Rejection (perceived or real)
• Suicide of close friend or relative
• Public embarrassment
8. What do I look for?
• A pattern of hopelessness
• A change in attitude
• Disproportionate anger
• Warning signs
9. What should I do?
• Take threats seriously.
• Act when you suspect that something may be
wrong.
• Contact the school counselor, school
psychologist, school administrator or school
nurse.
• Consult when you aren’t sure
10. What will happen?
• The mental health professionals will talk with
the student.
• The mental health professional will contact the
family with the concerns
• Suicide threats, even third party reports MUST,
by law, be reported to parents.
11. Important phone numbers
• Maryland Youth Crisis Hot Line
– 1-800-422-0009
• National Suicide Lifeline
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
