PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS
1 in 4 young people in today's society struggle with mental illness. Often these youth are not getting the care or help that they need. It is vital that teachers are educated on the signs and dangers of mental illnesses so that they can better care for the students in their classroom.
SUICIDE
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More than 3,900 young people die from suicide each year
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For every 1 suicide, there are 25 attempts
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About 19% of young people contemplate suicide each year
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14-24% of youth and young adults have self harmed at least once
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Males die by a suicide attempt 4x more frequently than females
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Females attempt suicide 3x more frequently than males
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Know the warning signs:
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isolation​
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withdrawal from friends
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intense mood swings
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changing habits
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increased use of alcohol and drugs
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showing rage or seeking revenge
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sleeping too much or too little
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If you suspect a youth might commit suicide, do NOT remain silent! Be sure to take appropriate action.
EATING DISORDERS
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10% of women binge and purge
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Early signs of eating disorders in young children include:
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worrying about body image
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mood swings
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fear of stomach aches
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weight loss
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thinning of hair
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hiding or hording food
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Eating disorders develop as early as age 7
DEPRESSION
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Symptoms:
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intense worries or fears that get in the way of normal, daily activities​
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extreme difficulty in concentrating
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changes in behavior or personality
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severe mood swings
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out-of-control risk taking behaviors that can cause harm to self or others
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feeling very sad or withdrawn for more than 2 weeks
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For more information or to learn more, see the resources page to find helpful links.