Includes bibliographical references and index.

"In spite of increased community awareness of youth suicide through the national suicide prevention strategy, suicide continues to be a major public health issue and social concern. The numbers of suicides in Australia have decreased in recent years following peaks in 1997-1998, however despite the decreases, suicide remains a major cause of death, and is greater than the number of deaths from transport accidents. Youth suicide is a particularly complex and sensitive issue, and its effects are devastating for entire communities, especially the family and friends of the victims. This book presents important information on a range of key issues relating to youth suicide prevention: risk factors and warning signs; myths about suicide; specific risk groups; mental illness; youth intervention strategies; and support for families, friends and school communities to cope with suicide-related grief." -- Publisher's website.