District to Observe Suicide Prevention Week September 5-11

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National Suicide Prevention Week (September 5-11, 2021) is when individuals, organizations, and communities worldwide raise awareness of suicide and suicide prevention.

Statistics show that teen suicide is on the rise. According to the National Association of School Psychologists, suicide is preventable. Experts agree that we get to a place where everybody asks questions that help identify at-risk individuals and get them the help they need. Together, we can prevent these unnecessary tragedies.

Dr. Charlotte J. Davis, Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services, oversees school counselors. The district has school counselors, social workers, and licensed school psychologists available to work with students who need assistance.

“We provide access to school-based mental health services and supports to improve students’ physical and psychological safety directly, academic performance, and social-emotional learning,” said Davis. “The district has trained staff to work with students and their families. We can provide resources to help students, their families, and staff members experiencing emotional trauma. Everyone works together to determine the appropriate level of treatment.”

Aldine ISD will promote National Suicide Prevention Week using daily themes to spread awareness.

Monday, September 6 (School Holiday)
Self Care — During this Labor Day holiday, you can practice self-care to reduce stress in your daily life.

Self-care activities include:

• Go for a walk
• Read a book
• Meditate
• Listen to music

Tuesday, September 7

Know the Signs

Warning signs to look for:

• Talking about wanting to die or suicide
• Looking for a way to kill themselves
• Feeling hopeless, desperate, or trapped
• Giving away possessions
• Reckless behavior
• Uncontrolled anger
• Withdrawal
• Anxiety or agitation
• Sudden mood changes

Wednesday, September 8

Ask: Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions.

When someone you know is in emotional pain, ask them directly: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?”

Research shows people who have thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation.

Thursday, September 9

Start a Conversation

Here is some straightforward guidance for having a mental health conversation that can make all the difference:

1. Get the conversation started
2. Schedule a time
3. Don’t give up

It can be hard to talk about a person’s mental health, particularly if they are struggling. But reaching out to help by having a conversation with someone struggling is a first step to getting them help. It’s also a strong thing to do.

Friday, September 10

World Suicide Prevention Day — This is an opportunity to raise awareness of suicide and promote action through proven means to reduce suicides and suicide attempts globally.

On this day, you can make a difference by doing one or more of the following with someone you think might be considering committing suicide:

1. Practicing self-care
2. Knowing the signs
3. Asking the tough questions, and
4. Starting a conversation

Resources
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention offers resources to anyone struggling or who wants to make a difference for someone else by offering support and understanding. You can also learn more about suicide prevention by accessing the following resources:
Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Take 5 to Save Lives
#BeThe1To

Hotlines
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Crisis Text Line: (Text HOME to 741741)
Crisis Intervention Houston: (832)416-1177
Mobile Crisis Outreach Team: (713)970-7520