Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.—Leo Buscaglia
According to the 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Survey taken by the Safe and Drug Free Schools department of the Washoe County School District, the percentage of high school students who reported one or multiple suicide attempts in the past year increased from 8.6 percent in 2001 to 13.6 percent in 2007. One important outreach organization in Washoe County that provides suicide prevention education is the Crisis Call Center. Their volunteers are trained to handle many concerns, but especially concerns about suicide. In addition to the suicide trainings, they also provide bullying and sexual assault trainings at individual schools.
The following are some signs that someone may be suicidal:
1. Has experienced one or more major losses
2. Experiencing insomnia or unshakable fatigue
3. Increasingly isolated, depressed
4. Giving away prized possessions
5. Abusing drugs/alcohol
6. Loss of appetite or overeating
7. Suddenly happy for no reason after long depression
8. Making statements about wanting to die
9. Experiencing major changes in behavior
10. Loses interest in school, work, hobbies, etc.
Some of the ways educators can help students struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts are the following: Listen to the student with sincere concern.
Let the school counselor know of your concerns. (Often the best way to help is by physically going with the student to the counselor’s office.) If a counselor is not available, and you believe the student could be suicidal, a parent or guardian should be immediately notified. It is extremely important that someone who is feeling suicidal gets some help with the issues being faced. Another good resource for students to be aware of is the Crisis Call Center Hotline where students or concerned adults can get assistance and support. That number is 784-8090 or 1-800-992-5757. This information can be used as part of a safety plan for students who are struggling with depression.
Suzanne Udall is the Outreach Assistant at the Crisis Call center. Her goal is to help educators by providing lifesaving/prevention trainings at schools throughout Washoe County. She can be reached at 775-784-8085.