Did you know that most people who commit suicide have depression?

And did you know that suicidal people often don’t even realize they are depressed?!

And, did you also know that depressed people don’t really think about the fact that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem? (They don’t think about it in the same way that other people do! –Depressed people focus on the negatives of the situation they are in. And they believe they will never be happy.)

Their depression distorts their thinking.

Did you know that teens with alcohol and drug problems are also more at risk for suicidal thinking and behavior? That’s because alcohol and some drugs have depressive effects on the brain. And by misusing these substances you can bring on serious depression. That’s especially true for some teens that already have a tendency to depression because of their biology, family history, or other life stressors!

Did you know that many suicide attempts occur when a person is under the influence of alcohol or drugs?

Yes, depression and drug problems (especially together) increase a person’s risk for suicide.

But did you know that many times, though, suicide attempts happen impulsively, in a moment of feeling desperately upset—A situation like:

• A breakup,
• A big fight with a parent,
• An unintended pregnancy,
• Being “outed” by someone else,
• …Or being victimized in any way.

Often, a situation like this, on top of an existing depression, acts like the final straw.

Melanie Hack
Author of Who Killed My Sister, My friend
Read an excerpt now
TV Shows and Clips about the Death of Cindy James