Also serving the communities of De Luz, Rainbow, Camp Pendleton, Pala and Pauma

Don't believe in the 'Not My Child Syndrome'

Evelyn Hill

The Jason Foundation

Writing, hugs and prayers are not enough, instead family should be educated about youth suicide and not fall into the “Not My Child Syndrome.”

It’s all too easy to think of suicide as a terrible tragedy that happens to other people’s families. People want to believe that children who experience “suicidal thoughts” come from dysfunctional families that may have a history of family violence and drug abuse. While it is true that these factors increase the risk of suicide, it’s important to understand that suicide crosses all racial, economic, social and ethnic lines.

No one is automatically exempt. Everyone needs to be aware of the warning signs of “suicidal thoughts” and know how to respond if the behavior of the youth causes concern.

Mental health problems take a toll not only on those directly affected, but on friends and family members as well.

The symptoms of mental illness are often misconstrued, and a significant amount of false information and stereotypes are perpetuated about people with suicidal ideation. Education is the most important step to understanding youth suicide, and the best thing a family member of a mentally ill person can do is to become educated about youth suicide awareness and prevention.

Many teens attempt suicide as a means of escape from the symptoms of mental illness, and suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 24 in Arizona. Everyone needs to feel as if someone is there to talk to and keeping the issues bottled up inside will only make the symptoms of the mental illness worse.

What can a parent do?

Visit http://jasonfoundation.com/get-involved/parent/parent-resource-program/. The Jason Foundation promotes awareness and education as key elements to preventing youth suicide.

 

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