People Working with Youth

Information on youth suicide for teachers, counsellors, social workers and other people working with youth.

◊ Talking with Youth About Suicide
If someone you know is thinking of suicide, talk to them about it. Refer to these guidelines for suggestions on what to say.

◊ Warning Signs and Risk Factors
Most suicidal youth give signs of their distress, although not all show warning signs. Some youth are at a higher risk of suicide because of certain factors in their lives.

◊ Protective Factors
Certain factors are thought to protect youth and reduce their risk of suicide.

◊ Myths and Facts
Separating fact from fiction may help you better understand a young person at risk of suicide.

◊ Trends in Youth Suicide
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among Canadian youth, following motor vehicle collisions. However, while youth suicide is of great concern, figures do not indicate an epidemic.

◊ Confidentiality Issues
People who work with youth in Canada are governed by provincial child welfare acts in conjunction with codes of professional conduct for specific professions.

◊ After a Suicide Attempt
Youth who attempt suicide and do not receive appropriate care and attention are at very high risk of further suicide attempts. There are special considerations for school settings.

◊ Bereavement Issues for the Professional Caregiver
The suicide of a youth may have considerable impact on the caregivers involved.

◊ School Settings
The risk of a repeated attempt or attempts by other students may increase without appropriate after-care procedures in a school setting.

◊ Best Practices in Prevention
A number of activities and programs have been developed that apply the best evidence to youth suicide prevention.

◊ Training in Suicide Prevention
Suicide prevention training is available through SPTP.

◊ Further Information
There are many information resources available for educators, counsellors, health professionals and researchers in the field of youth suicide.