Teen Suicide

It is also documented that self-esteem is at its lowest compared to other stages in life (Potter & Perry, 2011). Combining that with their inadequate decision-making capability, due to their underdeveloped prefrontal cortex, teens are more likely to make regrettable decisions that negatively impact their health and the health of those around them. As a community wellness measure, it is essential to bring into awareness that teen suicide is a preventable health problem. Importance of teaching

Teenagers also tend to “find themselves” online through internet social sites such as Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter, exposing self-expression statements that are easily accessible to virtually anyone with minimal effort. When bullying is done online, it can be perceived the same way as they would if he or she is being bullied in front of his or her friends due to the vast exposing nature of online information (Netter, Nies & James, 2010). Some teens and parents are lacking understanding this online communication era, so it is important to educate them about the impact of technology on teen health and suicidal behaviors.

Potential Areas of Focus (1)Raises awareness in bullying among teens and its psychological effect – whether online or offline. (2)Prevent teen suicidal thoughts as a result of such psychological impact. (3)Offer resources and techniques to relieve and eliminate bullying as a stressor. (4)To facilitate peer-to-peer assistance in eliminating/managing psychological impact, suicidal thoughts. (5)Offer community resources as well as professional and legal assistance to teens with suicidal thoughts. (6)Medical advice for teens with suicidal thoughts. (7)Raise awareness of suicidal impacts on friends, family and the community.

Scenario The county is having a youth wellness day; student nurses from Concordia are invited to give a speech to raise awareness and to prevent teenage suicide in the perspective of healthcare professionals. The lead nursing student is giving a speech to teach teenagers about prevention of suicide and its impact on family, friends, and community. Setting The scenario takes place at a community wellness event hosted by the county with teens between the ages of 12 and 18 and parents in the audience. A student nurse is giving a presentation in front of an audience, using a display board to help with the delivery of information.

Roles •Student Nurse delivers information about teenage suicide. •Pertinent client information and background information. oTeens between 12 and 18 years old in audience. oParents accompanying their teens. •Pertinent client responses. oQuestions and answers. Goals (1)Present statistical suicidal information to bring teen’s awareness on suicide as a public health problem that is directly related to their age group. (2)Raise teen awareness on the psychological impact of online bullying on teens, family, friends, and community. 3)Help teens identify suicidal thoughts and behaviors and offer resources to relieve such thoughts and behaviors. Presentation Scripts (Video) Focus: ?To raise awareness on bullying & suicide. ?Discuss strategies to avoid online bullying.