PARENT RESOURCE-STOP TEEN SUICIDE
The first time I ever recall thinking about hurting myself was at the age of 12. I don’t remember why, but I remember feeling like the world was caving in on me. This feeling has visited me time and time again… even into my adult years. The feeling left me when I found the love of the Creator and hasn’t returned since.
Last summer, one of my best friends from childhood, committed suicide. I was left feeling like I failed him as a friend. Why didn’t I know things were this bad? Why didn’t I recognize the symptoms? These were the thoughts running through my head.
What I have learned is this; suicide is often the result of someone suffering from some level of mental illness. Mental illness comes in all shapes and sizes. Mental illness is not always diagnosed or easy to recognize. And the truth is, young people are not likely to express to you, the parent, teacher, coach, mentor, etc. that they are depressed. So here are some things to look for that may help you identify if a young person is depressed. Being able to identify this behavior can prevent future harm of a young person.
Symptoms of teen depression:
(Present for more than two weeks and affects daily functioning)
- Persistent sad, irritable mood
- Sense of hopelessness
- Withdrawal from friends, family, activities
- Lack of energy and enthusiasm
- Changes in appetite and sleeping patterns
- Risky behaviors
- Suicidal thoughts
If you see these signs or symptoms, it is important to talk with your child or student about what you are observing. It may be uncomfortable, but it is necessary. Then be sure to get them help! There is not a day that goes by that I don’t think about my friend. He may have been feeling depressed since childhood, just like me! However, he never addressed those feelings and now he is no longer here. Let’s help prevent a young person from ever getting to the point of taking their own life!
The Cave of Adullam
The Cave of Adullam is a Transformational Training Academy (CATTA) based in Detroit, Michigan where boys who are emotionally distressed, mentally discontented and spiritually in debt, gather here to be trained and transformed into comprehensive men of the Most High. #TheYunion #youth #lovingyouth #youthassistance
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Summer Is Here!
Parents, SUMMER IS HERE! Do you have plans for your child? If not, don’t worry (just yet). Our Keys 2 Life Performing Arts Summer Camp is back and has gone VIRTUAL HYBRID! Our amazing 4-week summer camp starts Monday, July 5th, and includes virtual classes…
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We Love You
We you! Thank you for your continued support! #TheYunion #youth #lovingyouth #youthassistance
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Today’s Tip
Kids need help in understanding how their behavior affects other people. You can do that by teaching your child empathy. Talk to them about how their words or behaviors impact others. Say things like, “When you say you never get to do anything fun, it…
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Keys 2 Life 2021 Performing Arts Virtual
REGISTER YOUR CHILD TODAY for the Keys 2 Life 2021 Performing Arts Virtual Hybrid Summer Camp. Kicking off July 5th. This isn’t your ordinary zoom call for kids. We’re bringing Acting, Beat Making, Song Writing, Rapping, Singing, Dancing, and Orchestral String Instrumentation ALL TO THE…
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The Yunion (pronounced union)
The Yunion (pronounced union) is a 501c3 non-profit organization that serves youth and families in Metro Detroit. We recognize the importance of collaboration and community efforts. #TheYunion #youth #lovingyouth #youthassistance
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Make our lives Easier
Parents, we make our lives easier when we teach our children gratitude.
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Detroit youth and Families
We thank God for using us to reach this generation with His love, in a radical and innovative way. There are many reasons to have hope for Detroit youth and families! #TheYunion #youth #lovingyouth #youthassistance
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Supporting Black-Led Nonprofits
Join our Executive Director Nicole Wilson on Wednesday, June 23 as she speak with Allandra Bulger of Co.act Detroit Shawn H. Wilson of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, and Terry Whitfield of The Skillman Foundation about supporting Black-led nonprofits. Learn more and register…
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Self -Awarenes
Self -Awareness : The ability to accurately recognize one’s emotions and thoughts and their influence on behavior. This includes accurately assessing one’s strengths and challenges and possessing a well-grounded sense of confidence and optimism. One of the best things you can do for your young…
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The Yunion’s Programs
The Yunion’s programs are fully digitized and are the perfect complement to virtual schooling! We offer a variety of programs tailored to each student’s individual needs. #TheYunion #youth #lovingyouth #youthassistance
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The S.W.A.G. Day
Seeing is believing! Get in touch with us now to make a difference: https://theyunion.org #TheYunion #youth #lovingyouth #youthassistance
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Celebrate the Uniqueness
Standing In The Gap is a 6-week program designed to encourage young women to discover the beauty of their purpose and celebrate the uniqueness of their identity. #TheYunion #youth #lovingyouth #youthassistance
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Want to Join our Dynamic Research Team
Want to join our dynamic research team? If you enjoy research, looking for a paid internship experience, and want to assist youth and families in the Metro Detroit area we’d like to meet you. The research assistant intern will work with the evaluation consultant to…
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