September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and I urge all
educators and members of the school community to be on the lookout for students
showing signs of risk. If you notice someone suffering or in need, please speak out
and help point them toward assistance.
Unfortunately, suicide rates have increased significantly over the years. According
to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the second leading
cause of death for those between 10 and 24 years of age. Below are some
resources to share with others.
1. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention:
https://afsp.org/
2. California Department of Education Suicide Prevention web page:
https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/cg/mh/suicideprevres.asp
3. California Department of Education Student Mental Health Policy
Workgroup:
https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/cg/mh/smhpworkgroup.asp
4. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
Please encourage those in crisis to use suicide prevention services.