Depression & Suicide Prevention

Signs & Symptoms

100

Name 2 warning signs of suicide

• Talking about not being around anymore or having no reason to live

• Giving away prized possessions or saying goodbye to everyone

• Feeling unbearable pain, hopelessness, or like you are trapped, don’t belong or are a burden to others

200

What are 3 potential symptoms of depression?

Depressed mood, sadness or irritability

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

Change in weight or appetite

Change in sleep

Feeling sped up or slowed down

Fatigue or loss of energy

Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

Trouble concentrating or making decisions

Thoughts of death or acts of self-harm

300

The video mentioned that there are some risk factors for developing depression. Name 3.

-Family history of depression

-Having an emotionally sensitive personality

-Ongoing medical condition, anxiety disorder, or substance abuse disorder

-Poor health due to lack of sleep, food, or exercise

-Stressful/traumatic event or major life change

Warning Signs-Scenarios

100

Your friend has been acting strange for the past couple of weeks. You two are hanging out today and she seems to be in good spirits. She is going through some things in her room when she asks if you want her favorite ring. She states that she really wants you to have it so you will always remember her. Is this a warning sign of suicide? Why?

Yes 

She has been acting strange for 2 weeks or more and offering to give away prized possessions 

200

A friend of yours has been coming to school late, smells like he hasn't been showering, and he is wearing the same clothing worn earlier in the week. Could this be a warning sign of depression and why?

Yes, especially if this is a change of behavior from what is typical for your friend.

300

Is it okay to ask someone directly if they are suicidal? Yes or no and why?

Yes. This is a common myth. Asking someone about suicide does not encourage suicide. Often, a person can feel relief that someone asked.

What helps

100

Good self-care is a key piece to managing depression. What are some self care strategies?

Exercise, eating healthy, consistent sleep, keeping a journal, thinking of things you are grateful for, communicating feelings, exploring hobbies/activities, listening to music.

200

Name the confidential counseling resources or trusted adults at your school.

School counselors

School psychologist

Wellness center staff 

300

Although there are risk factors to depression, there are also protective factors. What are they?

• Coping skills: Effective problem-solving, adaptability, and healthy emotional regulation.
• Sense of purpose: Reasons for living, including family, friends, pets, or personal goals.
• Self-esteem: High self-worth, self-efficacy, and hope for the future.
• Cultural identity: A strong and positive connection to one's culture, spirituality, or personal beliefs
• Social support: Ongoing backing from partners, trusted friends, and family members.
• Connectedness: Feeling closely bonded and understood by others, reducing social isolation.
• Family functioning: Secure attachments and stable, positive relationships with parents or caregivers

• School or work engagement: Feeling connected to school, community groups, or meaningful employment.

• Reduced access to means: Limited access to lethal means of suicide among vulnerable individual