In most cases, the depression that so often precedes suicide is both recognizable and treatable. Suicide is our most preventable form of death, according to former Surgeon General, David Satcher, MD, yet it is the second cause of death for Ohio teens.
SPEA teaches teens to be the “first line of defense” in preventing suicide, since teens who make a plan to end their life tell a friend. SPEA has delivered its proven program, Recognizing Teen Depression and Preventing Suicide, to more than 114,000 students since December 2000 and currently serves 132 Northeast Ohio high schools. SPEA’s professional instructors teach teens to identify peers who may be suffering from major depression or may be at risk of suicide; how to respond; and where to refer. Self-referral is also encouraged.
Our goal is to cause at-risk students to seek and receive treatment from a mental health professional, as treatment is life altering and often lifesaving. Evidence-based research validates our program’s success. SPEA saves families from the unfathomable loss of a child to suicide and helps teens live healthy, productive lives. With your help, we will serve 16,000 teens during 2013.
Click here to see some people you might know who have suffered depression or bipolar disorder.
