YouthWorker Journal - March/April 2009 - (Page 44) CRISIS STOPPING SUICIDE Keys To Intervening Before It’s Too Late by Kelly M. Flanagan, Ph.D., and Fred Whaples As a youth leader, you’re unlikely to face anything that frightens you as much as a student who is considering suicide. Ultimately, your job is simple—to persuade the teenager to get professional help. However, reality is often more complex. The first thing to do is learn to detect the presence of suicidal thoughts. Many teenagers will tell you directly they’re thinking about suicide. For others, you’ll have to know the warning signs. Teenagers experiencing this kind of emotional pain may communicate it verbally, although perhaps in a disguised way. The types of verbal warnings may include comments that life isn’t worth the effort, that there are no solutions to problems, that others would be “better off” if the person wasn’t around or that the student may take revenge by hurting him or herself. Sometimes a suicide attempt is impulsive, but sometimes it isn’t; and the person begins to plan for it. The student may begin to give away personal items, plan a suicide note or engage in dangerous activities, such as increasing alcohol and drug use. Other signs include dramatic mood changes, intense anxiety or signs of depression. If the person has begun to develop a plan, he or she is at high risk for suicide. What To Do When there is an immediate threat of suicide, the first step is to ensure the student gets the help needed to be safe. Stay calm, take a deep breath and pray. Ask the student directly, “Are you thinking about committing suicide?” Many people hesitate to ask this question because they’re concerned that it will offend the person or will plant the idea in his or her mind. This is a myth. You’re more likely to communicate genuine concern and that you understand the seriousness of the situation. This question also will help you determine if the student has a specific plan. “Never promise to keep secrets. Instead, remind students you’ll focus on their best interests at all times.” 44 March/April 2009 | YouthWorkerJournal.com http://www.YouthWorkerJournal.com
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