Suicide Prevention

Joint School District No. 2

What does the legal system require of schools?

Idaho Code 33-512B Suicidal Tendencies….Duty to Warn

School counselors and school psychologist have additional legal requirements.

What are the requirements by the State Department of Education?

Idaho Administrative Rules of the State Board of Education (IDAPA .08.02.03)

Meridian Joint School District

Policy 504.21

Meridian Joint School District No. 2 School Counseling Department Suicide Prevention Procedures

1. Staff notification responsibilities2. Crisis Interview3. Consult with team member4. Inform Parents5. Documentation 6. If needed …Alleged Abuse/Neglect

Report (Idaho Code 16-1619)

Suicide

Is a cry for help…..it is a desperate effort to end the pain of problems that have become overwhelming….

Learning about suicide can help you answer that cry for help before it’s too late.

Why?

Loss Loneliness Hopelessness

Suicide is a permanent ---- but the motivation or feelings to commit suicide are often temporary.

Behavioral Clues

Sudden change in behavior Withdrawing Loss of interest Physical complaints Difficulty focusing, decline in schoolwork Giving away possessions Neglect of physical appearance Family crisis Sexual/physical abuse Use of drugs/alcohol

Direct or Indirect Clues…

“I wish I were dead….” “I’m tired of life …..” “I’m going to end it all….” “My ____ would be better off without

me…” “I won’t be around much longer…” “I wish I had never been born…” “I’m going to kill myself.”

Suicide Myths

A person who threatens suicide won’t really follow through.

FALSE. People who commit suicide often

talk about ending their lives before they actually do.

Suicide Myths

Talking about suicide might prompt the person to act.

FALSE! Discussing the subject openly shows that you take the person seriously and that you care. It is helpful---not harmful.

Suicide Myths

Once a person decides to commit suicide, nothing can stop that person.

FALSE! Most suicidal people can and want to be stopped.

Suicide Myths

People who attempt suicide are just trying to get attention.

Possibly----but unless someone gives them attention, the consequences could be fatal.

What to do…

Take all threats seriously Communicate concerns/share

information with administrator, school counselor, school psychologist and/or school nurse

Remain calm, listen Do not promise secrecy Do not leave the student alone