Monday, August 29, 2016

A Reason to Live

Reason to Live
This film is intended to help eliminate the stigma and shame associated with depression and suicide. It clarifies warning signs that friends, parents, teachers and others need to identify about depression in young people ages 15-24. This film explores psychological, cultural, biological and social factors that contribute to depression and suicide so that the viewer can more clearly understand the thoughts and feelings of people who are depressed and suicidal.  With this understanding, people can more effectively recognize the danger signs, get help, and save lives. Finally, the film presents realistic and effective steps to treat depression and to prevent suicide. 2-DVD set includes classroom and adult versions of the film, with additional special features.

Did You Realize . . .
1.     Each year in the U.S., approximately two million adolescents attempt suicide.
2.     Every year, more than 4000 young people, ages 15-24, take their own lives.The rate of suicide among this age group has almost tripled in the last 15  years.
3.     Suicide is the third leading cause of death in adolescents and the second leading cause of death among college-age young people.
4.     1 out of 3 adolescents who self-identify as GLBT will attempt suicide.
5.     They are 3-4 times more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual counterparts.
6.     More than 300 million young people are at risk for suicide, yet only 36% receive treatment.
7.     Nearly 50% of 26,00 college students surveyed at the University of Texas at Austin said they had seriously considered suicide but NEVER told ANYONE and NEVER sought HELP.
                   

Target audience for the film: Young Adults 15-24 & their Families
a.     Youth Agencies
b.     Public & Private Schools
c.     Community Colleges & Universities
d.     Coaches & Mentors
e.     Mental Health Professionals
f.      GLBT Organizations
g.     Social Workers
h.     Foster Care Professionals
i.      Rehabilitation Professionals & Caregivers
j.      Medical Care Professionals
k.     Hospitals & Medical Offices
l.      Law Enforcement & Correctional Facilities
m.   Civic Organizations
n.     Spiritual & Religious Groups
o.     Elected Officials & Government Agencies

Discussion guide
Life as a teenager has changed dramatically over the years. Young people are facing challenges that many of us did not have to face until we reached adulthood. There has been a tremendous increase in exposure to violence, drugs, and discontent throughout the last decades.
As a result, children have had to grow up much faster than ever before. Without guidance and help, youth may not know where to turn or may choose to go down the wrong path. In response to these concerns, Media Projects, Inc. and CONTACT Crisis Line have developed this curriculum in order to help adults and teens deal with these difficult times.
This film touches on many triggers and stressors that affect young adults every day. It is our hope that this documentary and study guide will become a national resource for depression and suicide for young adults.
It is important when showing this film that the appropriate set up and discussion are organized for both the students and teachers. We advise all professionals and teachers to view this film and study guide prior to showing it in a classroom setting. We have added a student release for parents to sign if any school would like to use this added resource.
The documentary is split into chapters, which are aligned with additional questions, and discussion formats for small group and classroom settings. The film is approximately 33 minutes in length.
If time constraints exist, or if the chapters in the film are used for individual lessons, you will find additional questions and resources in this study guide. Please feel free to contact us with any additional questions or suggestions for your audience.
Thank you for purchasing this important and educational resource.

Discussion guide Download

Awards and accolades
2013  LONE STAR EMMY for best documentary