
SPEAK 2009 Video
SPEAK on Broadcast Radio
Press Release from Governor Martin O'Malley
Former Governor
Robert Ehrlich
The Maryland Youth
Crisis Hotline
1-800-422-0009
National Suicide
Support Groups
The National Suicide Hotlines
Maryland Suicide Prevention Commission
SPEAK on Facebook
Bev Cobain/Jean Larch 'Dying To Be Free'

Linda Goldman
'Coming Out,
Coming In'

Goldman's Great Answers to Difficult Questions about Sex

Nancy Rappaport
'In Her Wake'

- Take suicidal threats seriously. It costs nothing if you are wrong; it may be the difference of a life if you are right.
- Be an "askable" parent. Make it clear that problems can be shared and concerns will be listened to through open discussion.
- Act when you suspect that something is wrong with your child. Think the unimaginable and be relieved if you are wrong.
- Avoid the trap of denial that surrounds suicide. (Such as: "Oh, he's just looking for attention.")
- Recognize that depression is a very real problem for young people; it is not a problem that will go away on its own.
- Seek professional help when warning signs are detected. Be willing to participate in family counseling to support your child.
- Create a positive family climate.
- Ask "What did you mean when you said, I wish I were dead"?
- Examine recent problems with your child. Assure him/her that you have sensed his/her pain and hurt, and promise to look together for solutions. Follow through!
- When a suicide is threatened, find out the plan for the suicide, the means considered being used, and the young person's access to the means.
- Assure your child that you will do what it takes to keep him/her alive; he/she must promise to work with you.
- Point out that most problems are temporary setbacks; suicide is forever.
- Discuss concerns with the school's counselor, school social worker, or psychologist.
- A therapist, who can see him/her immediately.
- Community Mental Health Agencies in Baltimore County.
- Hospital emergency room with a psychiatric unit.
1-800-888-1965
410-955-4647
410-467-7100
410-377-7711