HOW DOES BULLYING AFFECT SUICIDE RATES?

What We Know about Bullying and Suicide Together

• We know that bullying behavior and suicide-related behavior are closely related. This means youth who report any involvement with bullying behavior are more likely to report high levels of suicide-related behavior than youth who do not report any involvement with bullying behavior.
• We know enough about the relationship between bullying and suicide-related behavior to make evidence-based recommendations to improve prevention efforts.

WARNING SIGNS OF SUICIDAL THOUGHTS OR PLANS

• Feelings of not belonging anywhere and having no personal value
• Giving away prized possessions
• Personality changes. Depression and disconnection
• Not doing well in classes they usually excel in
• Expression of hopelessness & helplessness. Feelings of extreme guilt.
• Changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Verbal threats: “You would be better without me” or “maybe I won’t be around”
• Isolation. No longer wanting to hang out with friends and/or family
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Having trouble concentrating or thinking clearly
• Engaging in self-destructive behavior (drinking alcohol, taking drugs, or driving too fast, for example)