A.C.T. to Prevent Suicide

Warning Signs Sleeping and/or eating less or more

Failing grades, disinterest in school

Persistent sadness, anxiety, or frustration

Change in personality (becoming more angry, irritable, or aggressive)

Withdrawing from friends, families, and activities

Direct verbal cues: “I wish I were dead,” “I’m just going to end it all”

Indirect verbal cues: “You’ll be better off without me,” “No one cares if I’m dead”

Writing or drawing about death

Giving away prized possessions

Dropping out of school or other activities

Lack of concern about physical appearance and hygiene

If You’re Worried About a Friend, Don’t Forget to ACT

Acknowledge that you are seeing the signs of depression or suicide in friend and that it is serious.

Let your friend know you care about them and that you are concerned that he or she needs to help you cannot provide.

Tell a trusted adult that you are worried about your friend.

ACKNOWLEDGE

CARE

TELL

Do’s Don’ts

Learn the warning signs Promise to keep it a secret

GET HELP FROM AN ADULT Act shocked or disappointed

Encourage your friend to seek help Change the subject

Show support and be available Minimize their feelings or problems

Take comments about suicide seriously Give up!

Be nonjudgmental

Who Are Trusted Adults?

School counselorsTeachersCoachesNursesParents Anyone else?

Resources

Smart phone app: ASK - Warning Signs associated with

suicidal behavior - What to do if someone you

know appears to be contemplating suicide

Hotline NumbersNational Suicide Help Line: 1-800-784-2433 1-800-273-8255

Teen Help Line: 972-233-TEEN, 972-233-8336