Emily's Bio || Diary || Journal 2

Normal

I'm back to feeling mostly normal instead of completely out of control now that I'm back on Focalin. I can actually semi focus now and finish assignments. Well, normal besides the lack of sleep.

My dad has ordered the clonidine prescription for me I think. He brought the pill bottle downstairs at least. I'm scared and relieved that it'll be refilled. When I get it I'll need to be extra strong.

Oh yeah and I was reminded of the whole suicide prevention lesson we had in September or October. This is what I found online

Know what to look for
When someone is considering suicide, they usually SAY or DO something to signal their intent. Learn to recognize these signs, take them seriously, and GET HELP to prevent suicide.

Here are the most common warning signs:

Serious depression
Change in appetite or weight
Change in sleeping habits
Loss of interest in favorite activities
Feeling increasingly isolated
Fatigue and loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Feelings of hopelessness
Saying they want to die
Difficulty in concentrating and making decisions
Giving away prized possessions
Preoccupation with death and dying
Sudden drop in school or work performance.
As you look for these signs, ask yourself three questions:

How many of these signs are present?
How long have these signs persisted?
How intensely does the person feel about these signs?
Be especially concerned if your friend uses alcohol or drugs, has a family history of suicidal behavior, or has been depressed and suddenly seems cheerful.

Know what to say
ACT: Acknowledge, Care, Tell

Acknowledge that you are seeing signs of suicidal behavior and that it is serious.
Take the warning signs seriously
Let the person know that you are concerned by the seriousness of the issue
Ask “The Question” DIRECTLY

Care - let that person know you are there for them and that you are concerned that they need help that you cannot provide.
Listen to the person’s issues
Do not be judgmental

Tell a parent/professional either with that person or on their behalf.

Find out if the person has a plan
Do not keep this a secret
Brainstorm alternatives for help
Do not leave the person alone
Tell a professional or someone who can help
Keep asking over time

What stops suicidal teens from asking for help?

Don’t want to “rock the boat”
Don’t want to disappoint parents
Don’t want to admit they need help
Don’t know what to expect
Know what to do
If you suspect someone may be suicidal, trust your instincts, and NEVER KEEP SUICIDAL PLANS A SECRET. Remember, it’s better to have an angry or embarrassed friend than a dead friend.

Don’t leave a suicidal person alone. Stay with the person until the crisis has been dealt with. Encourage them to seek professional help.
Remove any lethal means which might include firearms, drugs, medications, or access to a vehicle.
Call the 24-hour crisis hotline and hand the phone to your friend or speak to the counselor yourself.
Or call The Center for Mental Health 24-hour crisis number (970) 252-6220. Talking about suicide doesn’t cause suicide. In fact, talking breaks the silence that traps your friend into believing suicide is the only answer.
Take your friend to the emergency room. Depression is a medical disease that can be treated.