Suicide Awareness/ Non-Suicidal Self Injury (NSSI)/bullying/sef esteem

Vocabulary practice flashcards defining critical terms, statistics, differences, and interventions related to youth suicide and Non-Suicidal Self Injury (NSSI).

Suicide

The act of intentionally taking one's own life.

Youth Suicide Mortality Ranking

The ranking of suicide as the second leading cause of death for individuals between $10$ and $24$ years of age.

High School Classroom Suicide Statistics

In a typical classroom in any one school year: $5$ students will have considered suicide, $2.5$ students will make a non-fatal attempt, and $1$ student will make an attempt serious enough to require medical attention.

Societal Factors in Suicide Increases

Societal dynamics contributing to rising suicide rates, social media, the decline of family structure ($50\%$ divorce rate, two-career families, mobility), competitive pressure, world violence, media sensationalism, and cyberbullying.

ACT (Suicide Prevention)

An action framework for suicide intervention standing for: Acknowledge their distress, Care about them, and Tell someone who can help them (an ADULT).

Non-Suicidal Self Injury (NSSI)

The deliberate, self-inflicted destruction of body tissue without the intent to die, utilized as a mechanism to cope with overwhelming emotional pain.

Emotional Regulation (NSSI Function)

A mechanism where physical pain prompts the brain to release endorphins and natural painkillers, temporarily calming intense emotional flooding from anger, sadness, or anxiety.

Breaking Numbness (NSSI Function)

A psychological purpose of self-injury where physical sensation restores a sense of reality and reconnects a dissociated or emotionally empty person to their body.

NSSI vs. Suicide

Self-injury features frequent, less severe physical harm aimed at coping without intent to die, whereas suicide features less frequent, more severe actions carried out with the intent to end one's life.

Typical Onset Age of NSSI

The developmental window between ages $12$ and $15$, characterized by hormonal shifts, major brain development, and heightened social pressure. More common in females, but males can do it as well. This age range often coincides with the onset of emotional and behavioral issues.

Social Contagion (Peer Clustering)

A phenomenon in school or online settings where exposure to someone engaging in self-harm increases the probability that another person will adopt the behavior.

80%

percentage of people who attempt or committ suicide that give warning signs

warning signs for suicide

giving away possessions, change in sleep & eating patterns, withdrawing, quitting sports and activities increased substance use, exhibiting hopelessness or extreme mood swings, expressing feelings of being a burden.

NSSI warning signs

include increased isolation, and difficulty regulating emotions, wearing long sleeves, bandages, cuts & bruises. Other signs may include changes in behavior, expressing feelings of shame or guilt, and engaging in risky activities. .

who’s most at risk for suicide

Individuals with mental health disorders, substance abuse issues, a history of trauma or abuse, and those experiencing significant life stressors such as being bullied, moving to a new community, parents getting divorced, struggleing with their se.

bullying

is repeated aggressive behavior that can be verbal, physical, social/relational or cyber. It often involves an imbalance of power and can have severe emotional and psychological impacts on individuals.

physical bullying

is a form of bullying that includes physical harm, such as hitting, kicking, pushing, or damaging someone's property. It often targets individuals perceived as weaker or more vulnerable.

verbal bullying

is a type of bullying that involves using words to harm others, including name-calling, insults, threats, or spreading rumors. This form of bullying can lead to significant emotional distress and a negative impact on self-esteem.

social/relational bullying

is a form of bullying that harms individuals through damaging relationships or social standing, such as exclusion, manipulation, or spreading gossip. This type of bullying can lead to feelings of isolation and low self-worth.

cyber bullying

is a form of bullying that takes place online or through digital communication, involving harassment, threats, or spreading harmful information via social media, text messages, or other online platforms. It can have lasting effects on the victim's mental health.

sextortion

is a form of exploitation that involves coercing someone into providing sexual images or acts through threats, often involving the release of sensitive information. This can lead to severe emotional distress and long-term psychological effects for the victim.

conflict vs bullying

Conflict involves disagreements or arguments between individuals, often resolved through communication and negotiation, while bullying is a repeated aggressive behavior intended to harm or intimidate. Understanding the distinction is crucial for addressing both situations appropriately.

target/victim

is a person who is subjected to bullying or harassment, often feeling powerless and vulnerable as a result of the aggressive actions directed towards them.

DASA

(Dignity for All Students Act) is a law aimed at providing students with a safe and supportive environment free from harassment and discrimination in schools.

bystander

is an individual who witnesses bullying or harassment but does not take direct action to intervene. Bystanders can play a significant role in either perpetuating or mitigating the bullying by their responses.

upstander

is someone who recognizes a bullying or harassment situation and takes action to intervene, support the victim, or promote positive change.

self esteem

is the overall impression and evaluation one has of oneself, influencing thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

power imbalance

A situation where one individual or group has more influence, control, or authority over another, often leading to exploitation or victimization. This concept is crucial in understanding bullying dynamics.

benefits of high self esteem

can include increased resilience, better coping strategies, enhanced motivation, and healthier relationships. High self-esteem contributes positively to mental health and overall well-being.

risks of low self esteem

can include increased susceptibility to mental health issues, lower resilience in facing challenges, and negative impacts on relationships and social interactions.

ways to improve self esteem

can involve setting realistic goals, seeking support from others, having supportive friends, limit time on social media, join a team or club, and engaging in positive self-talk. These strategies can help foster a more positive self-image and enhance overall well-being.