Blog:
Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
Local Statistics:
Source: Knox County Health Department: Epidemiology Program. (2019). 2022 Youth Risk Behavior Survey Knoxville, Tennessee: Knox County Health Department.; Knox County Child Fatality Review data, 1996-2016.
Myth About Teen Suicide
MYTH: Talking about suicide inserts the idea in someone’s head.
FACT: Talking about suicide can actually open up communication about the topic and help someone in need.
MYTH: All teenagers are “hormonal” and this is just a phase.
FACT: Take any threat of suicide or self-harm seriously.
MYTH: Suicide only happens if a child is being bullied.
FACT: Though bullying can be a contributing factor, it isn’t always true.
MYTH: Teenagers who talk about suicide are just trying to get attention.
FACT: Someone who dies by suicide usually talks about it first. Take someone seriously who talk about suicide.
MYTH: Suicide always occurs without any warning signs.
FACT: There are almost always warning signs.
MYTH: Once people have suicidal ideation, there is not stopping them.
FACT: Suicide can be prevented and most people don’t want to die, just to stop their pain.
Are you a parent? For information on talking to your teen able mental health and suicide, click here.
Other Resources:
Guides/Resources:
East Tennessee Mental Health Association Website
Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network Resources
Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide: Talking to your Kids about Suicide
National Suicide prevention lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255), a free 24-hour hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Call is routed to the nearest crisis center to you.
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
Getting routine shots from your doctor is never fun, but protect yourself by getting vaccinated.
The HPV Vaccine is cancer prevention. Ask your doctor about what you can do to stay safe, or call 865-215-5150 to schedule a vaccination appointment at the Health Department.