Today is World Suicide Prevention Day

September is Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month

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In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, the Delaware Children’s Department is raising awareness of suicide warning signs and helpful resources.

“We know that mental health and wellness have been impacted over the last six months and therefore we must be proactive and encourage children and families to reach out if they are struggling,” said Josette Manning, Secretary of the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families. “No one has to go through this alone.  Reach out to the Child Priority Response Line at 1-800-969-HELP or text DE to 741-741. Help – and hope – is only a call or text away.”

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death nationwide, and second leading cause of death for young people between the ages of 10 and 24.The following are some suicide warning signs for which to watch:

  • Feelings: Helplessness; worthlessness; fear of hurting oneself or others
  • Action: Drug or alcohol abuse; talking or writing about death/destruction; recklessness
  • Changes: (examples) Changes in personality, behavior; loss of interest in friends and hobbies once enjoyed
  • Threats: Like “I won’t be around much longer”; plans like giving away favorite things; suicide attempts like overdosing, wrist cutting
  • Situations: Getting into trouble at school, at home, with the law; recent loss through death, divorce; the break-up of a relationship; losing an opportunity, dream
  • For more information and helpful links, click here.