Suicide is not an option:

In preventing and postvention every parent should know about youth suicide.

Suicide Warning Signs:

  • negative view of self
  • hopelessness or no hope for the future
  • isolation or feeling alone
  • aggressiveness and irritability
  • possessing lethal means
  • feeling like a burden to others
  • drastic changes in mood and behaviors
  • frequently talking about death
  • self-harm and cutting behaviors
  • engaging in risky behaviors
  • discussing funeral arrangements
  • giving things away
  • substance abuse
  • making suicide threats

Reasons why some parents hesitate on having their child referred for an evaluation

  • “normal” child adolescence
  • parent’s concern children are viewed as “weak in character”
  • parents hope their child will “get over it”
  • a “good reason”, parents believe their child is depressed

Depression that is evaluated and treated early, is less likely for further complications to develop. For example death by suicide or homicide.

Options treatment one may consider include:

  • immediate and sufficient to ensure safety
  • therapy
  • adult/family and good role models
  • family/school/community support
  • health exams like physicals
  • medication like antidepressants
  • awareness and/or eliminating domestic and any abuse

Where there is life, there’s hope.

Depression awareness can prevent problems in your child at home, in family, in school, and/or in the community. The right treatment may improve drastically in one’s child’s life in a short time. Adult/Family can play a crucial role in early recognition and referral can make a difference between life and death.

Alaska Suicide & Crisis Hotlines
(800) SUICIDE / (800) 784-2433
suicidehotlines.com/alaska.html

Cross Road Suicide Prevention and Provention
Wellness Department
Mile 187 Glenn Hwy. Glennallen, Alaska 99588
(907) 822-3203
crossroadmc.org

USA National Suicide Hotlines
(800) 273-TALK (8255)

NorthStar Behavioral Health System
Alaska Crisis Line – 24/7
(907) 258-7575 / (800) 478-7575

South Central Counseling Center
Anchorage Emergency Crisis Line-24/7
(907) 563-3200