SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR CHILDREN Four out of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warnings. Pay attention to these warning signs:   Ø  Suicide threats, direct and indirect Ø  Obsession with death Ø  Poems, essays and drawings that refer to death Ø  Dramatic change in personality or appearance Ø  Irrational, bizarre behavior Ø  Overwhelming sense of guilt, shame or reflection Ø  Change in eating or sleeping patterns Ø  Severe drop in school performance Ø  Giving away belongings If a child says, "I want to kill myself", or "I'm going to commit suicide", ALWAYS take the statement seriously and seek evaluation from a psychiatrist or physician.