Suicide Prevention: How Can Schools Help?

No one wants to talk about it, but suicide is a leading cause of death among teens. The good news is, schools are uniquely positioned to help. Student reporters from PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs investigate what schools can do.

TEACHERS: Get your students in the discussion on KQED Learn, a safe place for middle and high school students to investigate controversial topics and share their voices.  https://learn.kqed.org/topics/24

If you or anyone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings right now, call the suicide prevention hotline: 1-800-273-TALK, that’s 1-800-273-8255. If you don’t want to talk to someone, you can text 741741, anonymously, and a counselor will come to your aide, whether or not you are currently in a crisis.

What programs help prevent teen suicide?

This toolkit: https://store.samhsa.gov/system/files… provides research based recommendations for how schools can implement comprehensive suicide prevention programs.

What is Sources of Strength?

Sources of Strength is an evidence-based suicide prevention program that uses adult advisors and peer leaders to support students’ mental health. It’s a suicide prevention program that focuses on building strength, support, and hope to help students navigate the complexities of life.

What role can peer leaders play in suicide prevention?

Sources of Strength trains peer leaders to look out for signs that a fellow student might be struggling, and provides training on talking with students about issues they may be facing. Peer leaders are also trained in identifying when it’s appropriate to alert a trusted adult about a problem.

SOURCES: 

School‑Based Suicide Prevention: A Framework for Evidence‑Based Practice

Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’: Preventing Suicides a Toolkit for Highschools

The Jason Foundation: Facts and Stats

CDC: Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance

Suicide Prevention Resource Center: Evidence Based Prevention

Edutopia: Suicide Prevention Can Start in School

NPR: How one Colorado town is tackling suicide prevention starting with the kids

CDC: Causes of Death by Age Group