Educational Media Reviews Online

Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for adolescents and young adults. The phrase “Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.” is one that I ask my students to reflect on. What does it mean? This video has the information needed to reflect on that phrase. It’s Never Too Late: Stopping Teen Suicide is divided into 3 segments that aptly describe the risk factors, how to get help, and how to help others. It’s an exceptional tool for use in a mental health unit to help teens know what warning signs to look for and how they can help a friend who might be suicidal. Interviews include a suicidologist, and a psychologist who discuss the risk factors and the physiological aspects of depression in language which teens, who are the target audience, can fully understand.

When someone is suicidal they have feelings of hopelessness that seem insurmountable. Using real life teens with real life issues brings this important topic to a level that teenagers can relate to. The accompanying curriculum is a first rate tool to reinforce the video. It contains pre and post-tests for use in assessment, student activities and fact sheets are part of the package so they can put their new-found information and strategies to work. Parent activity and fact sheets are also included so the student has an opportunity to open up a dialog at home.

It’s Never Too Late: Stopping Teen Suicide is a beneficial addition to any school library for use by health and psychology departments.