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Home My WebLink AboutThe Times Advocate, 2004-12-01, Page 11Wednesday, December 1, 2004 Exeter Times -Advocate 11 Watch for suicide's warning signs By Scott Nixon TIMES -ADVOCATE STAFF EXETER — Communication with your child is vital. That was one of the messages learned last week at South Huron District High School in a discussion on `Suicide and Self -Harm Awareness,' part of a series of commu- nity forums presented by the School Council this year. Rue Brenner, a school trauma and loss specialist for the Avon Maitland District School Board and also part of the board's tragic events response team, spoke at the meet- ing, describing suicide as "an overwhelming event" that people find difficult to discuss. Brenner said suicide has an "enormous effect" on relatives and friends of someone who commits suicide. "It's an act of escape ... death happens to be the long-term consequence." Brenner said she visits 53 schools in the board and suicide is not an uncommon topic starting at age six and continuing into high school. SHDHS principal Jeff Reaburn said suicide is becoming more of an issue at ele- mentary schools than it used to. Brenner said self -harm at elementary schools is "shocking," adding young- sters are now forced to cope with information that should not be put into their minds. She later added that in an economy where often both parents are working, added stress- es are being put on fami- lies. There are many clues a youth may be contemplat- ing suicide. Some signs Brenner noted include: • a lack of sleep; • a loss of appetite; • a shift in per- sonality; • a loss of interest in things; • withdrawal from friends; • drug use. Brenner said sometimes the signs can't be detect- ed. "Some kids will never verbalize the depth of their despair." Females attempt suicide three times as much as males, although males are Hansen's Independent Grocer owner Mike Hansen, Exeter Public School Association member Danielle Oke and president Lori Nesbit stand with a cart of groceries worth $150 donated by Hansen's that will be raffled off to raise money for a Literacy for Books program at the school.The draw will be held Dec. 1 1 and tickets will be available Friday nights and Saturdays until Dec. 1 1. (photo/PatBolen) DISCOVER LI 4,,CHRISTMAS1 GARDEN CENTRE • Gills & Garlands • Bunches & Boughs Christmas bees Balsmam & 3raser Yir Cul or polled OPEN Thurs - Sat 9 - 5 or by Appointment 236-449 more likely to complete the act. Brenner said people choose death because the pain of coping with life is unbearable. "Suicide robs a family of a loved one, but it also robs the loved one of a future," Brenner said. Brenner said divorce can be a tough time for youths; they can feel responsible for their parents' mar- riage breaking up and internalize the guilt and anger they feel. She said it is exhausting physically, spiritually and mentally to be depressed. Brenner said anyone expressing suicidal signs needs immediate atten- tion. "If someone has a plan, they need intervention." Brenner encouraged parents to watch for the signs of depression or sui- cidal intentions and take FloorsFirs Innovative Flooring * Armstrong Vinyl * Ceramics * Pergo * Carpet * Hardwood * Area Carpets PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATIONS 235-4401 457 MAIN ST. S. EXETER www,floorsfirst.com/innovativeflooring them seriously. She said parents should make encouraging, uplifting statements to their chil- dren, many of whom will be relieved to talk about their problems. "Communication is vital. Let's make every effort we possibly can," Brenner said. There are several resources on suicide and self -harm available: the Huron -Perth Crisis Intervention Program, 1- 888-829-7484; a 24-hour parent crisis line, 1-888- 603-9100; and the Canadian Mental Health Association, 527-2442. Also, visit Web sites www.livingworks.net and www.safeincanada.ca The school's next com- munity forum is scheduled for Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. in the library, when the topic will be bullying. Large quantity of "in stock" Wallpaper, also 500 sample books to choose from Paint - Sundries - Giftware Exeter Decor Centre 15 Gidley St. Exeter 235-1010 (behind Bank of Nova Scotia) Four Seasons jewetTery Design 423 MAIN ST. EXETER 235-2666 CUSTOM SHOP CUSTOM SERVIC 20TH CHRISTMAS IN EXETER UP TO 50% OF ALL MERCHANDISE AND GIFTWAR Why Save After Christmas? 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