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Suicidal Behavior
A Serious Problem  Boys are more likely than girls to die from suicide of the reported suicides in the 10-24 age group, 81% were males . Girls attempt suicide more than boys.
Risk Factors:
•Interpersonal  Recent or serious loss.
•Mental disorders (particularly mood disorders)
•Hopelessness, helplessness, guilt, worthlessness.
•Previous suicide attempt.
•Alcohol and other substance use disorders.
•Disciplinary problems.
•High risk behaviours.
•Sexual orientation confusion.
•Social/Situational  Recent or serious loss (e.g., death, divorce, separation,broken relationship; self-esteem; loss of interest in friends, hobbies, or activities previously enjoyed)
•Family history of suicide.  Witnessing family violence.
•Child abuse or neglect. Lack of social support.
•Sense of isolation.
•Victim of bullying or being  a bully
•Cultural/Environmental  Access to lethal means (i.e. firearms, pills).
•Stigma associated with asking for help.
Barriers to accessing services.  Lack of bilingual service providers¤  Unreliable transportation¤  Financial costs of services¤  Cultural and religious beliefs (e.g., belief that suicide  is noble resolution of a personal dilemma)
Specific Warning Signs:-
Talking About Dying – Any mention of dying,  disappearing, jumping, shooting oneself, or other types of self harm  Change in Personality – Sad, withdrawn, irritable, anxious, tired, indecisive, or apathetic  Change in Behavior – Difficulty concentrating on school, work, or routine tasks , Change in Sleep Patterns – Insomnia, often with early waking or oversleeping, nightmares , Change in Eating Habits – Loss of appetite and weight, overeating , Fear of losing control – Acting erratically, harming self or others.