SUICIDE & DEPRESSION

Suicide and Depression

Suicide Prevention

Coping With Loss

Survivor Support Groups

Symptoms Of Major Depression (.pdf)

Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder (.pdf)

Suicide Danger
Signals (.pdf)

Suicide Risk
Factors (.pdf)

Help In A Crisis (.pdf)

Myth vs. Fact
About Suicide (.pdf)

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SYMPTOMS OF MAJOR DEPRESSION

If someone has at least five of the following symptoms, lasting for at least two weeks, he/she should seek the help of a mental health professional:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities
• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, helplessness
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, shame
• Change in sleeping patterns
• Change in appetite or weight
• Decreased energy, fatigue, and feeling "slowed down"
• Restlessness and irritability, increased anger
• Decreased ability to concentrate, remember, or make decisions
• Physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomach disorders that do not respond to treatment and for which no physical cause can be found.
• Thoughts of death, suicide, or wishes to be dead
• Increased alcohol and/or drug use

SYMPTOMS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER

The symptoms for the depressive episodes that are a part of bipolar disorder are the same as those outlined above for major depression. The signs and symptoms of MANIA, the other end of the "mood swing," include distinct periods of:

• Increased energy, activity, restlessness, racing thoughts, and rapid talking
• Excessive "high" or euphoric feelings
• Sustained periods of unusual, even bizarre behavior, often with significant risk-taking
• Extreme irritability and distractibility
• Decreased need for sleep
• Unrealistic beliefs in one's abilities and powers
• Uncharacteristically poor judgment
• Abuse of drugs, particularly cocaine, alcohol, and sleeping medications
• Provocative, intrusive, or aggressive behavior
• Denial that anything is wrong

SUICIDE DANGER SIGNALS

• Previous suicide attempt
• Talking about death or suicide
• Planning for suicide
• Depression
• Sudden happiness/increased energy after a severe depression

SUICIDE RISK FACTORS

Mental illness (90% of adolescent suicide victims have at least one diagnosable psychiatric illness at the time of death, most often depression, substance abuse, and conduct disorders)

Substance abuse (In about 2/3 of youth suicides, substance abuse or dependence was involved)

Firearms (Having a firearm in the home greatly increases the risk of adolescent suicide.)

Stress (Suicide may be triggered when the victim has gotten into some sort of trouble or has experienced recent disappointment or rejection. Family disruptions such as discord, domestic violence, separation/divorce, or frequent moves may be a factor.)

Previous attempt (20% to 50% of adolescent suicide victims have made a previous attempt.)

Contact SPEA at 216.464.3471 for assistance.

In most cases, the depression that so often precedes suicide is both recognizable and treatable.

In Cuyahoga County
216.623.6888

In Geauga County
440.285.5665 or 888.285.5665

In Summit County
330.434.9144

In Lake County
440.953.8255

In Lorain County
800.888.6161

In Medina County
330.725.9195

In Portage County
330.678.4357

IN CRISIS
1.800.273.TALK(8255)

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1.888.628.9454