Thesis/Introduction: Although youth/teen suicide is a serious and complex epidemic, most attempts and successes can be hindered (obstructed) with the right knowledge and preventative measures.
Area of Support 1: What is suicide? Understanding the reasoning behind people’s choices to consider or follow through with suicide. Statistics- Third leading cause of death among those between the ages of 15-24. It’s the fifth leading cause of death among those between the ages 5-14.
Area of Support 2: Factors that contribute to suicide/suicidal thoughts. Some factors include: alcohol/drug use, family dynamics, sexual and mental abuse, friendships/peer relationships (including boyfriends/girlfriends), depression (major contributing factor, usually associated with an underlying issue), bullying/peer pressure and mental illness (Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, etc.).
Area of Support 3: Signs and Symptoms- Isolated behavior, talking about death and wanting to die, previous suicide attempts, writing notes, etc. Symptoms of depression- loss of interest in things/people/events, lack of energy, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, etc. Symptoms of alcohol/drug abuse-memory lapses, illness, weight changes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, etc.
Area of Support 4: What can be done to prevent youth/teen suicide? Community participation, family awareness, school faculty being knowledgeable and providing easily accessible information and assistance (including therapy/group discussion).
Conclusion: Youth/teen suicide is an unfortunate occurrence. With the right knowledge, participation, and care, we can help prevent it from taking place and make the people we love and care for one less horrible and unnecessary statistic.
Hey Amanda, Good topic
ReplyDeletehaving personal experience of my own on this one I think we can never be too educated on the subject especially as a parent . Teens often talk to thier friends more than the parents so it is so important to know the signs. My niece attempted suicide back in Febuary (fortunately unsuccessfully) but all of the signs were there and my sister was completely oblivious to them ...we should always HEAR and SEE through the lines.
I agree with Leslie - this is a really important topic. I am really looking forward to seeing how the paper and PSA turn out. Your point of view - that there are ways that teen suicide can be prevented - is clear. Good job. Your areas of support seem to be strong. Make sure that you are working in your point of view in all the areas of support and not just in the last one. Nice work.
ReplyDeleteI think that this is a very important topic, but one that is often avoided. I'm not sure what the opposing argument would be - I guess if someone believes that suicide is not preventable or if they believe that we shouldn't be concerned with it. Your areas of support are good and the underlying message is great.
ReplyDeleteYes. I think that the other side could be a feeling that there is nothing to be done - that could be from not knowing what to do or denial of some sort, and other reasons I am sure. So that is the gap Amanda would be addressing.
ReplyDeletethis is a crucial topic for people to read specifically teens. i am interested to read how u tackle the many angles of this topic and how u feel the rising numbers of teen suicide should be handled.
ReplyDelete