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I'm currently a 6th-grade middle school teacher, and I'm experiencing 1st hand student's struggles and battles with finding their own identities. Many of them get so overwhelmed and feel that suicide is the only way out.

Suicide prevention is a top that affects students and parents but educators, administration, and the community all have effects from the outcome of a student causing harm to themselves. This paddle will assist with identifying signs of suicide attempts. I selected this topic to bring awareness to parents to identify sure signs and prevention strategies.

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1. This legal topic is essential due to all educators knowing how to recognize certain signs and having the ability to assist students with their mental health. Ms. Trotty has been a counselor for two years, and her most challenging issue is dealing with students who are suicidal. This mental state affects students academically, and if not sold at an earlier stage, it can be hard to reverse.

2. The best practice for suicide attempts is to train teachers on approaching the situation and finding the best solutions. Students also need to be educated on signs and prevention; this can allow them to assist their struggling peers. There are also screening techniques, and students who show signs should be evaluated as soon as possible. Another practice is ensuring that parents have specific resources to help them build relationships with and resolve certain issues at home.

3. From the perspective of Ms. Trotty and bringing awareness for students. Suppose students are aware of the issues and can educate others on the topic by knowing the signs of suicide and monitoring specific students who have been identified to show that they are battling overcoming the obstacle.

4. Ms. AlexisTrotty
6th Grade Middle School Counselor
Link: https://www.cfisd.net/domain/1326

Reference:
Alexis Trotty, personal communication, July 16, 2021

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American Association of Sucidlogy (AAS) is a nonprofits organization that focuses on publice awarness programs to bring education and traing to professtionals and the community. This association host an annaul conference to anyone who wants to gain knowledge on awarness and prevention for sucide.

Link:
https://www.suicidology.community/

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Article: Suicidal Thoughts are Increasing in Young Kids. It Began Before the Pandemic.
By: Tyler Kingkade & Elizabeth Chuck

The number of students ages 6-12 who have visited the children's hospitals for suicidal thoughts or self-harm has more than doubled since 2016.

One in seven students between ages 10 and 18 reports that they have considered attempting suicide.

Visits for teenagers with suicidal thoughts or self-harm at many hospitals rose from 2016 to 2019.

The goal at hand for counselors is to determine why students are attempting self-harm at a more early age.

Reference:
Kingkade, T. and Chuck, E. (2021, April 8). Suicidal Thoughts are Increasing in Young Kids. It Began Before the Pandemic. Retrieved July 16, 2021, from
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/suicidal-thoughts-are-increasing-young-kids-experts-say-it-began-n1263347

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Report: Child Psychiatrists Warn That The Pandemic May Be Driving Up Kids' Suicide Risk
By: Rhitu Chatterjee

Schools can supplement the lack of mental health providers by incorporating mental health education into instruction.

Many students need assistance dealing with trauma and grief.

Educators and school counselors should receive ongoing professional development and state funding is needed to assist students and provide mental health resources.

Reference:
Chatterjee, R. (2021, February 2). Report: Child Psychiatrists Warn That The Pandemic May Be Driving Up Kids' Suicide Risk. Retrieved July 16, 2021, from
https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2021/02/02/962060105/child-psychiatrists-warn-that-the-pandemic-may-be-driving-up-kids-suicide-risk

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This house bill will redesign services to ensure that critical mental health services are provided to Texans.

Passed by the 86th Texas Legislature to provide more money for Texas classrooms, increase teacher compensation, and reduce property taxes.

Reference:
House Bill 3, Res. 3, 83rd Cong., Regular Legislative Session (3)

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Statutory Law-Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA)

This public law states that the mental injury or negligence treatment for a child under the age of 18 to report suspected abuse and neglect to proper authorities.

Link:
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/STATUTE-88/pfd/STATUTE-88-Pg4.pdf

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Texas Education Code-Statutory Law

The school counselor should plan, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive guidance program to serve all students.

The law guarantees that a school counselor is accountable for helping their school counseling programs and services to integrate the best practices in suicide prevention.

Link:
https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/ED/htm/ED.33.htm

Reference:
Tex. Education Code § 33.006 (a) and (b)

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Texas Education Code-Statutory State Law
This law addresses that a school district must identify methods for addressing the needs of students for suicide prevention; including parental/guardian procedures in accordance with best practices list that includes strategies and methods in campus and district improvement plans.
Link:
https://statues.capitol.texas.gov/SOTWDocs/ED/htm/ED.11.htm
Reference:
Tex.Education Code § 11.252 (a)(3)(B)

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As part of the CFISD Safety plan; there are certain roles for the safety plan by the counseling department.

Role of the School Counselor
1. Complete Risk Assessment
2. Complete the Students Suicide Risk Report
3. Student Conferences
Role of Parent/Guardian
1. Complete the release of information
2. Refer to the Mental Health Resources
3. Openly communicate with involved staff

Reference:
Alexis Trotty, personal communication, July 16, 2021

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School district staff development should include training in preventing, identifying, and responding to reporting of bullying incidents. (Tex. Education Code)

District Improvement Plan must include strategies for suicide prevention programs. (Tex. Education Code)

Link:
https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov

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I have gained information on what needs to be followed in an suicidal emergency situation. As I pursue the role of a future school counselor I've received additional information on the connecting with individuals that are currently experiencing suicide prevention and how to manage certain situations.

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Based on the suicide Prevention Lifeline; there are signs that should be observed by educators/staff.
Withdrawal and sadness
Lower academic performance
Changed relationships with peers
Lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities
Poor attendance

Reference:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. (2019) Retrieved July 16, 2021 from: https://sucidepreventionlifeline.org