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