Ask Your Friend … “Do you feel unhappy and helpless? If Your Friends Asks … “Will I ever feel happy again?” UNDERSTAND the problem: Every year, close to 1 million people around the world commit suicide, representing a worldwide mortality rate of 16 per 100,000, or 1 DEATH EVERY 40 SECONDS. This suicide rate has increased by 60% in the past 45 years, with suicide rates among young people increasing at alarming rates in both developed and developing countries. USA has intentional suicide EVERY 20 SECONDS. :( Suicide Prevention … WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS! 1. Most people who are suicidal exhibit warning signs, whether or not they are in an acute suicide crisis. 2. These warning signs should be taken seriously and include observable signs of serious depression, such as unrelenting low mood, pessimism, hopelessness, desperation, anxiety, psychic pain, and inner tension; withdrawal from friends and/or social activities; sleep problems; and loss of interest in personal appearance, hobbies, work, and/or school. 3. Increased alcohol and/or other drug use 4. Recent impulsiveness and taking unnecessary risks 5. Talk about suicide, death, and/or no reason to live 6. Making a plan (e.g., giving away prized possessions, sudden or impulsive purchase of a firearm, or obtaining other means of killing oneself, such as poisons or medications) 7. Unexpected rage, anger, or other drastic behavior change 8. Recent humiliation, failure, or severe loss (especially a relationship) 9. Unwillingness to “connect” with potential helpers 10. BEING A BULLY VICTIM!!!! WHERE to find resources: 1. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline suicidepreventionlifeline.org 1-800-273-8255 2. National Institute of Mental Health nimh.nih.gov (301) 443-4513 (866) 615-6464 3. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention afsp.org 4. American Association of Suicidology suicidology.org 5. Suicide Awareness Voices of Education save.org 6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Strategic Direction for the Prevention of Suicidal Behavior cdc.gov/... 7. bornthiswayfoundation.org (References: Digital artwork, "Suicide", by The White Deer at Society 6.com; author's knowledge; NetCE.com) #Depressed #alone #lonely #upset #sad #crying #sadness #depression #anxiety #selfharm #Cutting #mentalillness #Suicide #SUICIDAL #recovery #suicideprevention #Mentalhealth #BTWFoundation #Art