Get Help for a Young Person

Knowing the warning signs and how to help can help save lives. Warning signs can include:

• Self-destructive behavior, such as increased drug or alcohol use
• Anxiety, agitation, irritability, aggression, recklessness
• Sleeplessness or sleeping too much
• Depression or mood swings
• Loss of interest
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Talking about dying or wanting to die

TEEN SUICIDE IS PREVENTABLE

If a young person in your life is showing signs of distress, do not hesitate to ask them whether they’re having suicidal thoughts. Studies show that asking them directly about suicide will not increase their risk or plant the idea. Instead, it shows that you care enough to offer support. Listen and engage in a caring, concerned, supportive manner.

SOURCES: National Institute of Mental Health, Centers for Disease Control, National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline^TM, which is funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and administered by Vibrant Emotional Health.

Physicians are on the medical staff of Laurel Ridge Treatment Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Laurel Ridge Treatment Center. The facility shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. Model representations of real patients are shown. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.