Fact v Fiction: What Parents, Educators & Friends Should Know About Suicide
Suicide is a significant public health problem worldwide. In 2010 alone, there were 38,364 suicides in the U.S. (105 per day; one suicide every 14 minutes), where suicide is the third leading cause of death among youth ages 10-24. There are an estimated 25 suicide attempts for each death by suicide.
The good news is that suicide is preventable. Most suicidal people give definite indications of their suicidal intentions in things they say, write, or post on social media sites. Research has shown that even a simple act of connecting at-risk individuals with words of hope or caring can play a significant role in their decision to seek help or re-consider their plans to die by suicide.
Unfortunately, the public at large is unaware of how to recognize warning signs, understand their significance, and act on their concern. In addition, stigma around mental illness and ignorance about the benefits of treatment are still prevalent among both the general public and those who struggle with psychological distress, such as depression, anxiety, alcohol and substance abuse, PTSD and thoughts of suicide.
Kognito’s innovative role-play simulations prepare people to effectively lead real-life conversations that can improve social, emotional, and physical health. These simulations allow students, faculty, friends and parents to learn about mental health, understand how to identify warning signs and build best-practice skills to approach and refer someone for help. Through practice conversations with emotionally-responsive virtual people, learners gain the confidence and competency to have real-life conversations that change lives.
At-Risk for University Faculty and Staff
At-Risk for High School Educators
At-Risk for Middle School Educators
Veterans on Campus for Faculty and Staff
These are 6 Myths About Suicide Every Parent and Educator Should Know.