NCJ Number
112055
Date Published
1986
Length
153 pages
Annotation
This book provides content information, teaching methodology, and visual aid suggestions for teaching a 4 to 5-day unit on suicide and depression.
Abstract
The Living Alternatives Program, divided into sections for junior high and high school students, is designed to provide young people with skills for living and to encourage them to reach out for help when they are living and to encourage them to reach out for help when they are having problems, are depressed, or are feeling suicidal. Materials discuss the causes of suicide and depression, describe the signs of depression and suicidal thoughts, and provide guidelines for dealing with a depressed or suicidal friend. Emphasis is placed on the need for actively taking control of one's own life as a means of coping with depression and suicidal feelings and the use of problems as a means of personal growth. Questions, exercises, and role plays are provided to enhance students' listening skills and reinforce program materials. Goals, means, and facilitator notes for each day of the program are provided. Also included is a student and a teacher evaluation form and a test for assessing students' cognitive learning. Additional information discusses factors school personnel should consider when talking to depressed and/or suicidal youth. Sample crisis cards, resource lists, and index.