Page 80 - Youth Discipleship Student Textbook

Generally suicidal people give warnings to others of what they are planning such are moodiness,
withdrawal, sudden traumatic events (like breaking up with a longtime boyfriend or girlfriend), violent
behavior, extreme depression, or drug or alcohol use.

Many people who commit suicide really do not want to die but would rather live. They just need to find
a solution to their problem.

Do’s and Don’ts in Working with Suicidal Adolescents

 Do’s
 When possible, diffuse the plan the person has for killing him- or herself by obtaining
and disposing of the method of choice (bottle of pills, etc).
 Be positive; suggest the most desirable alternatives
 Remain calm, and work at being empathetic
 Use constructive questioning to help separate and define the person’s problems and
remove some confusion.
 Emphasize the temporary nature of the person’s problem.
 Stay in touch
 Urge professional help when beyond your ability.

 Don’ts
 Don’t get into a philosophical debate
 Don’t belittle or try to shame the person
 Never try to physically force a weapon from a suicidal person. You must verbally
manipulate it out of his or her hands.

Another very common problem of youth is sexual abuse

Assaults among people under the age of 18 are common: 18 percent of girls and 3 percent of boys say
that by age 17 they have been victims of a sexual assault or abuse at the hands of another adolescent.
24
90% of sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim already knows and trusts. The sad truth is
that sexual assault victims suffer in silence.

Warning Signs to Look for…

 Learning problems in school.
 Poor peer relationships
 Self-destructive behavior; suicidal tendencies
 Hostility and lack of trust toward adults
 Major problems with authority figures
 Seductive and/or promiscuous behavior
 Running away
 Fear of going home; fear of being left alone with the abuser
 Severe depression

24 https://theconversation.com/sexual-assault-among-adolescents-6-facts-103658

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