Suicide prevention week observed in New Delhi

This PPT is related to suicide prevention week which was supposed to be presented before the school students to promote better mental health

1. SUICIDE PREVENTION & EDUCATION “CREATING HOPE THROUGH ACTION”

2. AIM Education about suicide Causes of stress Warning signs/Risk Factors/Protective Factors Prevention of suicide and stress management

3. Suicide, derived from Latin suicidium, is "the act of taking one's own life". Suicide is a major public health problem with far-reaching social, emotional and economic consequences. Our actions, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to those who are struggling. “Dare to reach your hand into the darkness, to pull another hand into the light.” Norman B. Rice Facts

4. CAUSES Stress and trauma Mental health issues Substance misuse Medical conditions

5. CAUSES OF STRESS High performance demand Academic pressure Bullying and harassment Personal or family problems Less socialization with family and friends

6. MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES AND MEDICAL CONDITIONS Mental health diagnoses are generally associated with a higher rate of suicide. Psychological autopsy studies reflect that more than 90% of people who die by suicide had one or more mental health issues. There is a relationship between depression and suicide; the risk of suicide is increased by more than 50 percent in depressed individuals. Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety Most mental illnesses tend to develop in adolescence which is the most vulnerable period of life There is an association between suicidality and physical health problems such as chronic pain, traumatic brain injury, cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome, kidney failure (requiring hemodialysis), HIV, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

7. SUBSTANCE MISUSE Drugs Can alter brain development and mood The reward center is more active Early exposure to Alcohol, Nicotine, Cannabis, etc. can foster addiction and dependence

8. LANGUAGE – HOW DO WE TALK ABOUT SUICIDE? * An important objective of suicide prevention is to remove the stigma associated with suicide and mental health issues so that people will be more likely to seek the help they need. Consider your own thoughts and biases. Be conscious of your use of language around suicide.

9. JUST TO BE CLEAR…THE FACTS: Talking about suicide will NOT cause it. Almost all who die by suicide DO talk about it to at least one other person. There are almost always warning signs. We must pay attention EVERY time. Suicide can often be prevented. Anyone can learn to intervene.

10. Avoid: Ignoring or dismissing the issue Acting shocked or embarrassed Challenging, debating or bargaining Giving harmful advice Judging, lecturing, getting angry Promising secrecy Do not leave the suicidal person alone

11. SYMPTOMS Difficulty focusing Lack of appetite Difficulty sleeping Headaches Guilt, anger, fear Nightmares/confusing dreams Frequent mood changes Anxiety Anhedonia Hopelessness Acting reckless/engaging in risky activities Feeling Trapped (like there is no way out) Withdrawing from friends, family or society No reason for living; no sense of purpose in life

12. MANAGEMENT

13. Stress management

14. PROTECTIVE FACTORS Positive resources and conditions that promote resilience and reduce the potential for suicide. Skills to think, communicate, solve problems, manage feelings Purpose & value in life-- hope for future Hobbies– Music, Reading , Sports Personal characteristics - good health, positive outlook, healthy choices Safe Environment – restricted access to lethal means Supports-- Supportive parents, friends, teachers, and other caring adults

15. PARENTING What you do matters! Stay involved, maintain communication Set limits along with fostering independence Show You Care—Listen carefully—Be genuine “I’m concerned about how you are feeling.” Ask the Question—Be direct but caring & non-confrontational Get Help—Do not leave him/her alone “You’re not alone. Let me help you.”

16. 5. Removing access to guns or other weapons. Other lethal items-household chemicals, ropes, driving, etc.

17. SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE: Struggle to make meaning of the loss Suffer from overwhelmingly complicated feelings May take a long time to grieve Need understanding and support Youth survivors have special issues

18. How to be Supportive After a Suicide Attempt Support family/friends Acknowledge the impact, the fear Avoid judging, blaming Emphasize safety and removal of all lethal means from household Encourage appropriate help