Creating Hope through Action 💛 By raising awareness, reducing the stigma and encouraging action, we can reduce and prevent suicide around the world. Research shows that 23.6% of teens are struggling with feelings of hopelessness and sadness while suicide is the 2nd leading cause death among children aged 15 years and older! Information about Teen Suicide 👇 What are Suicidal Thoughts? Suicidal thoughts are when someone thinks about suicide. They may or may not have a plan. All expressed thoughts of suicide must be taken seriously. Asking questions about how, when and where they plan to commit suicide, will assist to obtain the level of risk for suicide, and therefore assist in identifying what action needs to be taken. It is also important to remember that asking these questions will not make the person kill themselves. It is also important to take into account that not all suicides are well thought out in advance; some are impulsive, which is likely true of people who are unable to cope with depression.If a learner seems depressed or withdrawn and spends a lot of time questioning why life is meaningful or why life is unjust, it is time to pay attention. Research indicates that most suicidal young people don’t want to die, they just want their pain to end. Being able to recognise warning signs in a learner’s behaviour as well as being alert to the risk factors, can assist in combating and preventing suicide. Warning Signs of Teen Suicide Talking about Suicide with Teens Knowing the warning signs of teen suicide is only the first step. The next question that needs to be looked at involves talking about mental health and suicide with teenagers. How does one communicate with a teen and how do you get them to really open up to you and share what is going on inside of them? And even if they show no obvious signs of depression, how do you get them to talk to you?Troubling behaviours can sometimes be prevented by talking to teens before things reach that point. If you notice some concerning signs it is always a good idea to sit down with the teen and let them know that you are here for them and that help is available. Step-by-Step: Talking about Mental Health Suicide Risk Levels Based on the severity of the case – make an action plan White Risk Level: No risk of suicide.Yellow Risk Level: Potential for risk exists and could escalate. Vague suicide ideation without a definite plan or access.Orange Risk level: Potential for risk to self or others. Current suicide ideation with a plan but no access.Red Risk Level: Imminent & immediate risk to self or others. Current suicide ideation with a plan and accessFor emergency support, contact The South African Depression and Anxiety Group on 0800 567 567 or 0800 456 789. Alternatively SMS 31393 to speak with a counsellor. We want you to know that you are not alone! FaceUp’s team of Registered Counsellors, Psychologists and Teachers are here to help and support you. Thank you for all you do to help at your school, organisation & just in your community as a whole! 💙 At FaceUp South Africa, we believe that ALL parents and teachers need to be equipped with the knowledge of how to help children & teens and where they can access this help. We don’t just launch the FaceUp app at your school – we feel it is so important to provide constant support to our teachers. We run workshops and training sessions in order to help every teacher understand the mental health of our children. Through FaceUp, schools have the power to intervene timelessly and offer their learners the necessary help and support they need. For more information about FaceUp South Africa and how we can help you, contact us today. Cayley Jorgensen, Director – FaceUp South Africa cayley.jorgensen@faceup.com