Wear Orange or an Orange Ribbon. Write "Keep Fighting" on your Wrist or Draw an Orange Butterfly.
Self-Harm
People think self harm is about trying to kill yourself. But mostly it's about tying NOT to kill yourself.
It's an attempt to deal with powerful painful emotions. And even though there are other ways to try to cope; stopping self harm is actually pretty complicated.
So before we go blaming someone for harming themselves, maybe we can help. By not judging. By understanding that underneath the cuts, etc. there is pain. A lot of it. And by understanding how incredibly hard it is to stop self harm once it's begun.
Q: How common is Suicide in children and teens?
A: In 2009, suicide was the third leading cause of death for young people ages 15-24. In this age group, suicide accounted for 14.4 percent of all death in 2009.
While these numbers may makes suicide seem common, it is important to realize that suicide and suicidal behavior are not healthy or typical responses to stress.
Q: What are some of the risk factors for suicide?
A: Risk factors vary with age, gender, or ethnic group. They may occur in combination or change over time. Some important risk factors are:
- Depression and other mental disorders
- Substance abuse disorder (often in combination with other mental disorders)
- Prior Suicide Attempt
- Family history of Suicide
- Family violence including physical or sexual abuse
- Firearms in the home
- Incarceration
- Exposure to suicidal behavior of others, such as family members or peers
However, it is important to notes that many people who have these risk factors are not suicidal.
Q: What are signs to look for?
A: The following are some of the signs you might notice in yourself or a friend that may be reason for concern.
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
- Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings
Seeking help is a sign of strength, if you are concerned, go with your instincts and get help.
Q: What can I do for myself or someone else?
A: If you are concerned, immediate action is very important. Suicide can be prevented and most people who feel suicidal demonstrate warning signs. Recognizing some of these warning signs is the first step in helping yourself or someone you care about.
If you are in a crisis and need help: Call this toll free number available 24 hours a day, every day
1-800-273- TALK(8255).
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