As we observe National Suicide Prevention Month and World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, we recognize the critical need to address the challenges of suicidal ideation among our youth. The impact of this issue extends throughout our community, affecting us all.
The first step toward intervention and support is awareness of suicidal warning signs, which include the following changes:
Behavioral: Withdrawing from friends and activities, giving away personal belongings, self-destructive behaviors, increased substance use, sudden mood improvement after depression.
Verbal: Expressing feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or being a burden. Talking about death, dying, or wanting to die, making statements like "I can't take it anymore" or "I wish I weren't here," mentioning specific plans or methods for suicide.
Emotional: Drastic and sudden mood swings, overwhelming sadness, despair, emptiness, loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities, intense irritability or anger.
Situational: Recent loss of a loved one, breakup, significant life changes, bullying or harassment, academic or work-related stress, financial difficulties, or other significant personal crises.
Physical: Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleeping), changes in appetite or weight loss/gain, decreased personal hygiene and self-care.
Social: Increasing social isolation and withdrawal from relationships, losing interest in social interactions or activities, feeling disconnected from friends, family, and self.
Cognitive: Difficulty concentrating or making decisions, preoccupation with death, dying, or the afterlife, intense guilt or shame.
When you notice these warning signs, you should:
Initiate a conversation about suicide.
Provide active listening and non-judgmental support.
Encourage professional help through therapists, counselors, and helplines.
Involve trusted adults, such as parents/guardians, coaches, teachers, and mentors.
Create a safety plan in collaboration with the individual.
If you or someone you know is experiencing hopelessness and suicidal thoughts, please seek help with these resources:
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: A nationwide lifeline network operating 24/7 to provide free and confidential crisis services. Visit 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Offers support groups and chapters throughout the United States. Visit NAMI
For those in need of professional support, consider contacting Care Solace, a complimentary and confidential service provided by Ridley School District. They can help you find a mental health or substance use provider.
Call 888-515-0595. Multilingual support is available 24/7/365.
Visit www.caresolace.com/ridley and either search on your own or click "Book Appointment" for assistance via video chat, email, or phone.