SVMS Counseling Newsletter
September 8-14, 2013
National Educational and Health Awareness
It is my goal to bring awareness to parents, students and the SVMS community various health and educational topics which will coincide with National and/or World awareness days. A difficult subject, this weeks newsletter will bring your attention to Suicide Awareness and Prevention.
Statistics
In the United States, a person dies by suicide every 13.7 minutes, claiming more than 38,000 lives each year. It is estimated that an attempt is made every minute, with close to one million people attempting suicide annually. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. among adults 18-65, the second leading cause of death among teens and young adults, and individuals ages 65 and older account for 16 percent of all suicide deaths. This is a public health issue that does not discriminate by age, gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic status. ~American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP-2013)
Possible Suicidal Warning Signs
Warning signs include:
- Feelings or statements of hopelessness
- Rage, anger, seeking revenge
- Feeling trapped
- Increased alcohol or other drug use
- Withdrawal from others
- Anxiety, agitation, or sleep problems
- Dramatic mood changes
- Feelings or statements that reflect not having a reason to live or a sense of purpose
- Threatening to hurt or kill themselves
- Looking for ways to kill themselves; seeking access to pills, weapons or other means
- Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide (If it is out of the ordinary)
If you notice these warning signs in your student/friend, it is very important that you ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide. ~ 2009 The University of Texas at Austin Counseling and Mental Health Center
SVMS Counselor Role
Our number one concern is for the safety and well being of all of our students. If at anytime it is brought to our attention that a student may be contemplating suicide, School Counselor, Mrs. Esparza or myself will contact a family member with our concern and if needed, suggestions for further help. Also, if you as a parent have a concern for your child and need help or direction, please call your myself of Mrs. Esparza.