Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 15-24.
The suicide rate in Kansas is up 45% since 1999. This is the 5th highest rate of increase in the U.S., only four states had a higher rate of increase than Kansas.
A Parent’s Guide
If your child says nothing is wrong but has no explanation for depressed behavior – trust your instincts and remember that we all struggle sometimes.
Signs to be aware of
Sad, hopeless, tearful, crying
Irritable, angry, hostile
Loss of interest, apathy, withdrawn
Fatigue, lack of energy
Feeling worthless, guilty
Restless, agitated
Changes in eating, sleeping, hygiene
Encouraging kids to open up
Be loving and non-judgmental
Tell them what specific things you see and why they worry you
Understand there may be reluctance to open up
How To Help
Offer support
Listen without lecturing
Be gentle, but persistent
Validate their feelings
If you think your child may be suicidal, ask them directly.
If they answer yes
Ask about a plan
Listen – threats about suicide must be taken seriously
Be non-judgmental and offer empathy
Do not leave them alone
Connect them with professional help
Continually follow-up with them
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline with them (800) 273-8255 and/or Bert Nash (785) 843-9192
A Student’s Guide
Learn the warning signs and act accordingly. Here are some ways to approach friends you may be concerned about, and how to respond to them.
Immediate warning signs
Talking or writing about suicide
Has a plan
Expressing hopelessness about the future
Making preparations for suicide (giving away belongings, writing a suicide note, looking for means to attempt suicide)
Signs to be aware of
Excessive sleeping or lack of sleep
Lack of concentration
Changes in hygiene
Increasing use of alcohol, drugs or other risky behavior
Increasingly agitated, anxious, sad, angry
Withdrawing from social activities
Spending more time alone, isolating
Experience of loss
Ask them directly, “are you thinking about suicide?”
If they answer yes
Listen non-judgmentally
Connect person to the next helper (teacher, school counselor, coach, parent)
Check back in with the person
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for support for yourself or your friend (800)273-8255
Crisis Text Line – text “Kansas” to 741-741
An Educator’s Guide
Educators share a unique relationship with youth and often times can spot the warning signs such as behavioral changes or social withdrawal. Discover ways to approach at risk students and how you can help.
Immediate warning signs
Talking or writing about wanting to die or kill oneself
Has a plan to commit self-harm or suicide
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
Making preparations (Giving away treasured belongings, writing a suicide note, looking for means to attempt suicide)
Other warning signs
Significant changes in behavior (appetite, sleep, concentration, hygiene, academic)
Increasing use of alcohol or drugs or other risky behavior
Withdrawal, isolation
Experience of loss (relationship, self-esteem, sense of belonging)
Extreme mood swings
Negative talk – “this will never end”
Things You Can Do
Tell them you care, and you will help
Reflect what they share to let them know they have been heard
Thank them for telling you, and let them know you want to work together to help
Ask them directly, “are you thinking about suicide?”
If they answer yes
Stop what you are doing and take immediate action
Listen – threats about suicide must be taken seriously
Be non-judgmental and offer empathy
Do not leave the student alone
Contact the building administrator or designee
If you are worried about someone else or are in mental health distress yourself, reach out to a 24-hour service:
Headquarters Counseling Center - (785) 841-2345
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - (800) 273-8255