A Friend Speaks Of Suicide

 A friend suddenly changes

                     Is depressed  

                                                                    Wants to end it All

These are Big Warning Signs.  Don’t ignore them.

You may save a life.

                                       Other signs:

Becomes a loner

Change in personal appearance

           No interest in favorite activities

           Can not concentrate      

                                  Expresses hopelessness, helplessness or excessive guilt

                    Preoccupied with death

Self-destructive behavior  - reckless driving, drug abuse or promiscuity

  Reasons for these changes

            Death in the family  

       Parents divorce

Break up with boyfriend or girlfriend

A failure in class or extracurricular activities

Step up and help.

    Do not avoid the issue or your friend.  Ask directly about thoughts and plans.

    Be willing to listen.  Avoid arguments, do not give advice.

    Seek out an adult advisor to help you and your friend such as:

 A School Counselor
          A trusted friend of the family
                     Your or your friend's religious advisor

   Call a crisis number below.

                        a.    1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
                        b.    252-474-4343    Sheri Rettew, free confidential help
                     

    Check the internet  www.metanoia.org

If your friend is acutely suicidal, do not leave your friend alone.

Seek help for your friend today

                         And your friend will see and enjoy tomorrow.

 “Youth Depression free clipart”                                                                                                                            6/2007