Forget “13 Reasons Why” Try 3 Ways to
Approach “The Suicide Talk”
Today the suicide rate of teens have increased drastically.
According to USA Today (March 2018), “…suicidal thoughts and actions more than
doubled from 2008 to 2015.” The mental health of youth is an important factor
that needs to be addressed effectively and without shame.
I recently read an article that attributed the film and TV
series “13 Reasons Why” to the increase of teen suicide.
Realistically, the show cannot be the main contributing factor to the rise of
teen suicide. The lack of sufficient and
useful knowledge is the issue. It’s time to look at how the conversation of suicide is
approached.
#1 Research, Relate, Recite
The best way to talk about it is to know about it.
The internet offers many reliable and credible sources to gain the knowledge
you need about dealing with teen suicide. Try
searching Amazon for some great books.
#2 Support and Success
Your local support groups and community resources
can provide hope in a hopeless situation. Hearing others’ struggles and success
stories can be very educational and eye opening to the reality of suicide and its
effects. You can use Google to locate your nearest suicide support group. NAMI is another great community
outreach resource. Remember if the first resource or support group does not fit
your style, don’t give up, visit others until you find the right one.
#3 Do It The Professional Way
Don’t be ashamed to seek professional advice and
guidance. Your local psychiatrist or therapist can give you the insight you
need into suicide facts
and prevention. The majority of EAPs and insurance will cover the fee for free.
The sessions are confidential so don’t worry about who will know you attended a
therapy session.
For immediate attention call the suicide prevention
lifeline at
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
If you are bothered by approaching the topic of suicide let GMC take on
the task that can save lives.
Visit ginmanconsulting.com
for more information.
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motivation, inspiration, guidance and support.
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