KNOW WHAT TO DO There is a direct link between depression and suicide.  Every year in the United States , over 2,000 teenagers die by suicide.

TAKE SUICIDE SERIOUSLY The statement, “People who talk about suicide, won’t really do it.,” is false!If your friend makes comments like, “I wish I were dead,” or “It doesn’t matter, I won’t be around much longer,” or “Everyone would be better off without me,” it may signal that he is thinking about suicide.

NEVER KEEP SUICIDE A SECRET It’s okay to ask your friend, “Have you ever felt so badly that you’ve thought of suicide?” Asking the question won’t plant the idea in a person’s mind.If you suspect a friend has been thinking of suicide, tell a responsible adult, someone who will listen, take you seriously, and take action to get your friend help.If the first adult you go to doesn’t feel there is cause for concern, keep going until you find someone who takes you seriously.  This is an act of true friendship.  A suicidal threat, even if said jokingly, should always be taken seriously!

OFFER TO HELP Listen carefully, don’t judge, and focus on the behaviors that concern you.Reassure your friend that there is help and that suicidal thoughts are only temporary.Offer to go with your friend to his or her parents, counselor or doctor.You can say things like, “I can tell you’re really hurting,” or “I care about you and will do my best to help.”  Tell him, “It’s okay, it isn’t your fault.”  A supportive friend can mean so much to someone who is in pain.

Attempting suicide does not make you a bad person and it does not mean you are crazy.  It doesn't mean that you even want to die. It is simply when your pain has exceeded your coping resources. You are feeling more pain than you can cope with right now. Individuals vary greatly in their ability to deal with pain. Some are stronger than others. What you need is people to get through this point in your life.  And statistically you have a better chance of living.       

    Don't give yourself additional burden by trying to do it alone. Get help. Find family members to talk to or friends. It is about regaining balance in your life to be stable.