School Closures, Youth Despair, and Suicidal Rates
While our health officials and government officials tackle getting our children back into schools, make no mistake, school closures, isolation, and stay-at-home orders have affected the children in our communities and alarming statistics are coming in regarding student/youth suicides. Suicides can be prevented if warning signs are detected and an appropriate intervention is conducted. It is important to recognize the warning signs of a suicidal youth. Following are nine red flag behavior signs to watch for in your child: Change in eating or sleeping habits Unexplained severe, violent, or rebellious behavior Withdrawal from family or friends Sexual promiscuity, truancy, and/or vandalism Drastic personality change Agitation, restlessness, distress, or panicky behavior Talking or writing about committing suicide - even jokingly Giving away prized possessions Doing worse in school
If you notice any of these warning signs, please contact us. You may not be able to handle this situati...