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Professional Information: Suicide Prevention Awareness
We can never be too careful. Please review the following, which was developed for the Lawrence Public Schools, to help clarify any questions still remaining about suicide prevention.
Staff Talking to a Suicidal Student
* Take it seriously
* DON'T make suggestions
* DON'T problem solve
* LISTEN. Let them tell their story
* REFER to the counselor/social worker ASAP
Most Critical Warning Signs
* No interest in the future
* Strong interest in death: readings, writings, conversations, art
* Giving away important possessions
* Hinting at suicide
* Talking directly about suicide
* Talking about a plan for committing suicide, especially with access to a gun
Suicidal Themes in Writings
* Quantity/frequency
* Context with assigned topic
* Absorbed or lost in it, does it seem "personal"
* Note that says, "I want to die," or "I want to kill myself," should set off an alarm
Depression in Students
* Little emotional response, low energy, vegetative, loss of appetite
* Acting out, getting into arguments, rage
* Existential depression
Protective Factors For Students - Dr. Pfeffer
* Good Mental Health
* Presence of Social Support
- Empathy
- Consistently available
- Limit setting
- Environmental structures
* Good Adaptive Skills
- Realistic appraisal of stress
- Plan alternative solutions
- High frustration tolerance
- Self-esteem
- High impulse control
- Hope
Professional Information: Suicide
The following is the Suicide Prevention Brochure. You might print and fold it if you do not have instant access to the Brochure as printed by the district.
Below are downloadable PowerPoint presentations of interest:
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For Professionals
