The suicide deaths of 17 teenagers in and around Bridgend, Wales, since January 2007 has put the ugly subject of suicide back in the headlines across the UK and Europe as a whole.

Sometimes, a person who is skipping school or abusing drugs is saying, 'If you care, you will stop me.' Many people who try to commit suicide have mixed feelings about it. They're actually looking to see if others think they're worth saving.

10. Neglect of Appearance:

This may reflect a low self-esteem, especially when the person lets his/her appearance degenerate in a short space of time.

11. Frequent Crying:

This may show that a person is no longer able to cope with their situation.

12. Self-Destructive Talk:

Always treat it seriously if you hear a friend saying things like: 'Well, you won't miss me when I'm gone!', 'I wish I could go to sleep and never wake up!', or 'They'll be sorry when I'm gone.' This may very well be a desperate last cry for help - even if it sounds flippant at the time.

How Can You Help?

The signs above should always be taken seriously - especially, as I've said, when several of them occur together.

How can you as a friend or family member help someone who is in trouble and potentially suicidal?

1. Be Observant:

Take note of major changes in behaviour. Young people are especially vulnerable to major depression during times of upheaval in their circumstances. A death in the family or among friends, or fights in the home, or the break-up of a close boy/girl relationship, all of these can trigger depression.

Trust your instincts: if you see sudden changes in behaviour, recognize that there could be a much deeper problem.

2. Be a Good Listener: