Youngsters
and teens can send mixed signals with words and actions that
baffle and even alarm adults. By better understanding the
signs of mental illness, depression and potential for harm
to self or others, teachers can be better equipped to help
students.
The
example below helps to illustrate this point further:
"He's
a smart kid: An excellent writer. But he was making poor choices.
He was getting into trouble in the classroom and was given
in-school suspension. 'I really want to do well,' he told
me. But I just can't seem to get going.' It appeared that
he didn't care how he did, but at the same time wanted desperately
to care."
-30-year
high school English teacher about a 15-year old student
The
Facts
Understanding
some of the basic facts about suicidal behavior and mental
illness, like depression, and young people, can help with
understanding how to best communicate and take proper action
(Reference 4):
- Suicide
is a preventable tragedy, one that often occurs as a result
of untreated depression.
- Teens
who abuse alcohol or drugs are likely
self-medicating a depressive mood disorder or other mental
illness...
|
