|
Since the internet came along with communicating and socializing online becoming a big thing, it also saw the start and growing issue of cyberbullying. Bullying has always been an issue in places like schools, and rather than improving despite schools implementing anti-bullying policies, it continues to cause real damage mental and physical to its victims. But where there was a time a teen could come home and get away from it, with cyberbullying, it is on social media platforms, emails, texts, IMs and other electronic communications. In part, cyberbullying is why suicides are on the rise in youths. More than 14% of teens in high school have thought about it and half of those have tried it. Transgender, lesbian and gay teens are more likely to be bullied and more likely to make suicide attempts. It is in the top 5 leading causes of death in teens. It is why the need for training, resources in the form of something like a mental health toolkit and whole community action is needed. Signs to look for There are often signs that indicate the teen is in need of help, but because of a lack of education or awareness, they are missed, or not taken seriously. Things to watch out for if you are the guardian or educator of a teen include; - A sudden change in temperament and behavior - There are a number of reasons you might need a mental health crisis toolkit when you see a change in personality. It might be from drugs, alcohol, mental illness or something else. But if you see a sudden change in your teen that might be something that needs examining.
- Becoming suddenly preoccupied with dying and death - Some questions about death is normal. If there has been a loss in the family, a friend or pet has died, then it is normal to think about death at this time too. But having a more morbid interest in it might mean you should have your teen seek professional help.
- Threatening to commit suicide - If you have a teen who talks about killing themselves then you should seek help, explore the benefits of a mental health toolkit and take them to a professional. They might not just talk about it, they might express it by writing poems about it, or singing songs about it. They might not use specifically the word suicide but talk/writes about having nothing to live for, no one caring about them, it would be a better world without them, and no one would notice if they were gone.
- Making arrangements for their things and pets - Another reason to check out a mental health crisis toolkit is if they suddenly start giving away their belongings and make arrangements for someone to look after their pet. Talk to them about why they are doing this, and if they indicate they think they will no longer need them anymore then you need to seek immediate help for them.
Related Articles -
mental, health, crisis, toolkit,
|
