The school board recognizes that depression and self-destruction are problems of increasing severity among children and adolescents (SB Policy #5350)."Suicide is a serious public health problem.  While it's causes are complex and determined by multiple factors, the goal of suicide prevention is simple: reduce factors that increase risk (i.e. risk factors) and increase factors that promote resilience (i.e. protective factors).  Ideally, prevention addresses all levels of influence (individuals, families, school communities and society at large)".  Centers for Disease Control

Nearly 45,000 Americans die by suicide each year.  The best way to prevent suicide is to recognize warning signs and know how to respond if you spot them.

Warning Signs can include:

• Threatening to hurt or kill themselves
• Increased alcohol and drug use
• Having rage, anger, or seeking revenge
• Social withdrawal from friends, family and the community
• Dramatic mood swings
• Talking, writing, or thinking about death
• Impulsive or reckless behavior
• Expressing hopelessness, no reason for living, or having no sense of purpose in life

"Take any suicidal talk or behavior seriously.  It's not just a warning sign that the person is thinking about suicide- it's a cry for help".  Suicide Awareness Voices of Education

If you are concerned about yourself or someone else, call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-TALK (8255) or call 911 immediately.