Suicide prevention

Suicide prevention is the act of preventing suicide by identifying and addressing the factors that contribute to suicidal behavior. This can include things like providing mental health support, reducing access to lethal means, and creating a culture of connectedness and support.

There are a few reasons why schools may be reluctant to implement suicide prevention programs, particularly if there has not been a suicide or suicide attempt made within the student body. These reasons include:

• Fear of contagion: Some people believe that talking about suicide will make it more likely that students will attempt suicide. However, there is no evidence to support this claim. In fact, research shows that talking about suicide can actually help to reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
• Fear of liability: Schools may be concerned that they will be held liable if a student commits suicide after participating in a suicide prevention program. However, there is no evidence to suggest that this is a legitimate concern.
• Lack of resources: Schools may not have the resources to implement a comprehensive suicide prevention program. However, there are many low-cost and easy-to-implement suicide prevention strategies that schools can use.

I disagree with the concerns that some schools have about implementing suicide prevention programs. I believe that it is important to talk about suicide, even if there has not been a suicide or suicide attempt made within the student body. By talking about suicide, we can help to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and make it more likely that students who are struggling will seek help. Additionally, suicide prevention programs can help to train school staff to identify and support students who are at risk for suicide.

Here are some of the benefits of implementing suicide prevention programs in schools:

• Reduced rates of suicide and suicide attempts: Studies have shown that suicide prevention programs can help to reduce rates of suicide and suicide attempts in schools.
• Increased awareness of suicide: Suicide prevention programs can help to increase awareness of suicide among students, staff, and parents. This can help to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and make it more likely that people who are struggling will seek help.
• Improved school climate: Suicide prevention programs can help to improve school climate by creating a more supportive and connected environment for students. This can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are two of the risk factors for suicide.

If you are concerned about suicide, please reach out for help. There are many resources available to you, including:

• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
• The Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386