This presentation will address research findings which suggest that suicide attempts are prompted by a sense of hopelessness and the experience of intolerable pain. Strategies for transforming pain into hope will be explored and include the pros and cons of medication, talk therapy, and patient-led groups. Finally, case studies of teens who have a history of an attempted suicide but have since made the decision to live will be examined. We will end with a response to the following question: What are some universal truths that can be gleaned from these stories and passed along to other hurting teens?
The Hope Line
Need someone to talk to? The Hope Line is open daily from 5 PM to 8 PM to provide supportive listening, guidance, and referrals for mental and behavioral health concerns. Support is available in English and Spanish.