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Traumatic Loss Coalitions for Youth Program (TLC)

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Since 2000, the TLC has been providing support to communities affected by traumatic events such as homicide and illness; the most difficult being suicide. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in New Jersey for ages 15-24.

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From ZeroSuicide After Your Child's Suicide Attempt

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From ZeroSuicide After Your Child's Suicide Attempt

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Parents to Parents: After Your Child’s Suicide Attempt | Zero Suicide

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Parents to Parents: After Your Child’s Suicide Attempt

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Together, we work to create safe spaces, provide training and resources to help prevent suicide among youth and young adults. To get alerts for new trainings and resources join our mailing list below.

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Together, we work to create safe spaces, provide training and resources to help prevent suicide among youth and young adults. To get alerts for new trainings and resources join our mailing list below.

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Coronavirus update: The best way to apply for eligibility for intellectual and developmental disability (I/DD) services through CSOC is through our online Family Portal. Get more information about the I/DD application. Additional COVID-19 resources are also available.

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PerformCare - New Jersey Children's System of Care

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Coronavirus update: The best way to apply for eligibility for intellectual and developmental disability (I/DD) services through CSOC is through our online Family Portal. Get more information about the I/DD application. Additional COVID-19 resources are also available.

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Are You Okay? 3 minute video from Dr. Matt Wintersteen

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Are You Okay? 3 minute video from Dr. Matt Wintersteen

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Teens & Suicide: What Parents Should Know

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Teens & Suicide: What Parents Should Know

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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

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As a parent, you can approach suicide prevention in the same way you do other safety or health issues for your children. By educating yourself, you can learn what puts kids at greatest risk for suicide - and what protects them most strongly.

In this section

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Should parents be concerned about teen suicide?

Suicide is in the news and in popular entertainment now more than ever, especially in regard to teens. You can play a role in building up your child's mental health simply by becoming aware of the risk factors and warning signs that can lead to suicide, making yourself available to your child, knowing how to practice having a caring conversation, and being aware that help is always available.

The facts

There were approximately 100,000 teen (15-19 year-olds) suicide deaths over the 40 year period between 1975 through 2015, the most recent year covered by the study.

Boys take their lives at 3-4 times the rate of girls. The suicide rate for teen boys saw a rise that peaked in the late '80s and early '90s, then lowered in the late '90s and early 2000's. This may be attributed to pediatricians increasingly taking on the role of treating depression. However, the rate has unfortunately been rising again since 2006.

The suicide rate for teen girls had a similar but less dramatic pattern. There has been an increase for girls over the last 10-12 years.

It's worth noting there are fluctuations in suicide rates of all age groups over time. Youth rates remain significantly lower compared to every older age group.

Learn more about suicide

What can I do to protect my teen or tween from suicide risk?

As a parent, you can teach and model healthy habits for mental health just as you would with physical health. Taking care of your own mental health, talking about it openly, and seeking therapy when warranted is one way to model healthy practices.

If your child sees you approaching your own challenges and learning for your own mistakes in an open way, they will understand that it's okay to struggle and to learn from mistakes. They may develop flexibility and compassion for their own missteps - possibly even empathy for others, seeing how you navigate challenging times. They will also understand that life is messy and challenging for everyone at different times.

Check in with your child regularly, beyond just day-to-day tasks such as homework. You can learn how to invite deeper conversations through further guidance listed on this page.

If your child has a history of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm or substance use, you should monitor them more closely, and consider involving a professional, either at key times, or for the longer term for more chronic conditions.

How can I tell if my child is behaving like a normal teenager - i.e. moody, etc. - or if there might be something wrong?

When children hit puberty, there are changes in their body and brain that can and do lead to behavioral changes. But there is a normal range which can manifest as moodiness, irritability, and pushing you away. This is a natural part of adolescent development. What should be concerning is if you notice indications of hopelessness or worthlessness, a withdrawal from friends and activities, or suicidal thinking or behavior. These are not typical manifestations for teenage angst.

You know your child. You know their usual patterns, their common reactions to frustration and challenges, and what their good days and bad days look like. Trust your instincts if their behavior goes beyond these usual patterns of behavior. It could be just the tip of the iceberg of possible changes in their physical or mental health. It's worth engaging them in conversation to get a fuller understanding of what they are experiencing so you can provide support, and get a better sense of how severe it is.

If your teen or tween's sleep, energy, appetite, motivation, substance use, and frustration aren't bouncing back to normal after a few days, have them see their pediatrician or a mental health practitioner.

How can I talk to my teen about mental health and suicide?

Don't be afraid to have a conversation with your child about mental health and suicide. Ask your child how they're doing, what's happening in their world these days, and what their concerns are. It can start simply by asking, "Are you okay?"

Listen intently and without judgment. Ask open-ended questions, i.e. those that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. Resist the urge to offer quick fixes or solutions to their challenges, which tends to shut down further dialog. Validate and support their feelings.

Follow their cues, and say things like, "Tell me more about that. I'd love to understand more about what that's like for you. When he said that/did that to you, how did that make you feel?"

Should I use the same approach for different age groups, i.e. tweens (ages 8 to 12) or teens (13 to 17)?

The approach is very similar for tweens and teens, but with changes in language based on their level of sophistication and self-awareness. Use language that makes sense to your child, given their age, development, and what you know of how they think about things.

For a young child, you can ask about physical symptoms like stomach aches, and changes in feelings like getting upset or angry more lately. If it seems to you that they feel hopeless, trapped or overwhelmed - then ask if they ever think about hurting themselves or ending their life.

For older children, or kids who have demonstrated they are aware of their own thoughts and feelings, ask about their perceptions, as well as other symptoms like sleep problems, mood changes, and feelings of hopelessness, or of feeling trapped or overwhelmed.

What if they don't want to talk?

If your child isn't ready to talk, leave the invitation open for later by saying, "Whenever you want to talk, I'm here to listen and support you." You could add "I won't judge, and I'll never stop supporting you, no matter what challenges you face."

The likelihood is that your child will open up when you least expect it, sitting side-by-side rather than face-to-face, in the car or engaged in some other activity together.

When your teen starts to open up, be careful not to fall into the trap of jumping in with a solution or by saying, "You should..." or "Why didn't you..."

What if I'm concerned my child is thinking about suicide?

If your child is talking about any level of distress, do not hesitate to ask them whether they're feeling changes in their mood or level of stress, or having suicidal thoughts. Asking your child directly about suicide will not increase their risk, or plant the idea. It will create an opportunity to offer support, and let them know you care enough to have the conversation.

You can say, "It sounds like you've been dealing with a lot lately. Does it ever get so tough that you think about ending your life?"

If your child gives any indication they have been thinking about suicide (unless they are in the act of self-harming) take them seriously. Continue to listen and engage in a caring, concerned, supportive manner. You can say things like, "Can you say more about that? I'm so sorry you've been feeling this way. I want to understand more about your perspective. I'm here for you no matter what. There is no problem too big that we as a family can't get through. I'm going to keep supporting you and will also make sure you get the help you need to feel yourself again."

Talk with your child about how to seek help. If you fear they may be at risk, get professional help right away.

Let them know you'll be there for them no matter what, that your love is unconditional, and that you'll help them get the support they need to get through this challenging time.

In a crisis situation, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text the Crisis Text Line by texting 'TALK' to 741741 to speak or text with a trained counselor who can provide guidance on the most appropriate next steps and resources. Calling 911 is best for situations when self-harm is occurring or is about to occur.

For help finding a Mental Health Professional, consult with your child's pediatrician, call your insurance, or use this treatment finder.

What if my child knows someone who has taken their life? How do talk with them?

It is important as a parent to be there for your child if a friend or a classmate has died by suicide. You can find specific guidance in AFSP's Children, Teens, and Suicide Loss booklet, written in partnership with the Dougy Center, The National Center for Grieving Children & Families.

The booklet can be viewed online here.

Sign up for email alerts

Receive updates from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Subscribe
© 2021 American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. All rights reserved.

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Teens and suicide: What parents should know

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As a parent, you can approach suicide prevention in the same way you do other safety or health issues for your children. By educating yourself, you can learn what puts kids at greatest risk for suicide - and what protects them most strongly.

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Disclaimer: 2NDFLOOR is a youth helpline designed to listen, help and guide youth in addressing challenges. Periodically, calls may be monitored for quality assurance and training purposes. You are assured anonymity and confidentiality, except in life-threatening situations. When receiving such an emergency phone call, 2NDFLOOR staff will initiate emergency call - trace procedures (within the capability of currently available technology) for police intervention.

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It appears that you might be using an outdated browser. Some features of our site may not work.
For an optimal browsing experience, we recommend installing Google Chrome or Firefox.

After Delivering SOS to Students, Schools Reported:

believed students learned to identify signs of depression and suicide

saw an increase in students seeking help for themselves or a friend

felt there was reduced behavioral health stigma among students

Do you need any credentials or training to train students using SOS?

No additional training or qualifications are needed to provide evidence-based suicide prevention education to your students. SOS facilitators include school counselors, social workers, psychologists, and classroom teachers.

We do offer an SOS 360 Training for schools or organizations looking for additional support.

How long does it take to train students?

SOS student training takes as little as one class period of about 50 minutes. Optional supplemental lesson plans and refresher videos allow facilitators to provide additional training.

How many programs should I purchase?

Program pricing is based on a one-program-per-school model. Within a school, the student video can be streamed into as many classrooms as you choose simultaneously, and you may download and print as many copies of program materials as you need for your students, faculty/staff, and parents.

SOS operates on a subscription basis. Your initial purchase will give you access for one year from the date of purchase - after that, you can renew your program at our renewal price.

Can SOS be taught virtually?

Yes! In light of COVID-19's impact on school openings, MindWise has adapted the SOS curriculum to ensure middle and high school students understand how to identify signs of suicide and depression in themselves and their peers whether at home or in-person, while training school professionals, parents, and community members to recognize at-risk students and take appropriate action.

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Prevent Youth Suicide Today with SOS Signs of Suicide - MindWise Innovations

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It appears that you might be using an outdated browser. Some features of our site may not work.For an optimal browsing experience, we recommend installing Google Chrome or Firefox.

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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

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Featured resources

Practical information for immediately after a loss

The immediate aftermath of a loved one's suicide is a challenging, confusing, and painful time. The information below will help get you through the first few days with a better understanding of the things you're likely to face.

I've lost someone

You are not alone. Suicide affects millions each year, and thanks to our donors and volunteers-many of whom are loss survivors themselves-we can provide these resources to help you heal.

Get help

Find support for yourself or those who may be at risk for suicide

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Featured resources The immediate aftermath of a loved one's suicide is a challenging, confusing, and painful time. The information below will help get you through the first few days with a better understanding of the things you're likely to face. You are not alone.

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Suicide is a serious public health problem that causes pain, suffering, and can have a profound effect on the entire community. Suicide is one of the top 10 causes of death in the United States and the second leading cause of death for youth age 10 to 24.

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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

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The New Jersey Chapter is fueled by the mission to save lives by providing education and support to the Garden State.

The grassroots work we do focuses on eliminating the loss of life from suicide by: delivering innovative prevention programs, educating the public about risk factors and warning signs, raising funds for suicide research and programs, and reaching out to those individuals who have lost someone to suicide.

As a part of AFSP's growing nationwide network of chapters, we bring together people from all backgrounds who want to prevent suicide in our communities. Families and friends who have lost someone to suicide, vulnerable individuals, mental health professionals, clergy, educators, students, community/business leaders, and many others energize our chapter.

Volunteering with the New Jersey Chapter

We always welcome new volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering with us, please fill out the form below:
https://afsp.wufoo.com/forms/volunteer-application-new-jersey/
Weekly Quote
"Nothing can dim the light which shines from within." - Maya Angelou
For Urgent Assistance
If you or someone you know is in distress, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for free confidential support and resources for prevention: 1-800-273-8255

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The New Jersey Chapter is fueled by the mission to save lives by providing education and support to the Garden State. The grassroots work we do focuses on eliminating the loss of life from suicide by: delivering innovative prevention programs, educating the public about risk factors and warning signs, raising funds for suicide research and programs, and reaching out to those individuals who have lost someone to suicide.

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Onscreen representations of Native communities can help prompt healing conversations about suicide and mental health, writes SPRC Program Manager Shelby Rowe.

SPRC has compiled a selection of web pages and information sheets on mental health and coping with the effects of COVID-19.

This document seeks to advance progress toward full implementation of the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention.

Stay Connected!

The Weekly Spark

Suicide prevention

takes place in many settings

Suicide prevention

takes place in many settings

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Onscreen representations of Native communities can help prompt healing conversations about suicide and mental health, writes SPRC Program Manager Shelby Rowe. SPRC has compiled a selection of web pages and information sheets on mental health and coping with the effects of COVID-19. This document seeks to advance progress toward full implementation of the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention.

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National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention

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National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention

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You have taken an enormous step to help fight the problem of youth suicide by simply visiting our website. Thank you for your desire and efforts in keeping more than dreams alive, one young person at a time.

There are many things you can do to get involved with not only The Jason Foundation, but youth suicide prevention & awareness efforts as a whole. Obviously, the first thing you need to do if you haven't already is educate yourself on the problem and how to recognize and assist at-risk youth. Read more

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You have taken an enormous step to help fight the problem of youth suicide by simply visiting our website. Thank you for your desire and efforts in keeping more than dreams alive, one young person at a time.

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We give educators the tools to create meaningful discussions about depression

Adolescent depression lives in the shadows. Young people facing it feel isolated and dangerously alone. We help schools create hopeful dialogue so students can talk to each other, to their parents, to their teachers, and to counselors.

Educator Support

As a school partner, we can work with you to make the most of the Erika's Lighthouse programs and help you customize the programs for your school.
How we can support you
Authentic and Accessible Classroom Programs

Our easy-to-implement classroom programs are the product of years of conversations with educators, social workers, and especially teens. Programs are designed to:

Reduce stigmaby dispelling myths

Promote early identification in oneself and others

Encourage early intervention by peers and teachers

Access our programs
We provide teens and parents with a message that instills hope and resources to find help

Teen Depression Toolbox

Worrying that you or someone you love has depression can be overwhelming. You are not alone. Hope and help are possible and it all starts with a little education.
Visit the Toolbox
From Tragedy, Hope

Erika's Lighthouse: A Beacon of Hope for Adolescent Depression was founded in 2004 by Virginia and Thomas Neuckranz after their daughter Erika lost her life to depression. In order to avoid another loss in the community, they founded Erika's Lighthouse with the goal of creating educational materials to Get Depression Out of the Dark.

With help from the community, and from donors nationwide, we've grown and expanded our mission across the country. We know that working together, we can save lives.
Read the story about Erika's Lighthouse
Our school has partnered with Erika's Lighthouse for several years, and I am always impressed with the quality of materials that they produce. Talking about depression can make both teachers and students uncomfortable, but the Erika's Lighthouse programs are designed to decrease the negative attitudes of depression. The programs provide an opportunity for conversations about how students can contribute to a positive mental health culture in their school and community.

Physical education is required in schools, but what about mental health? Last Fall, New York and Virginia became the first two states to implement a new law which mandates mental health education in schools. This Summer, Florida also made mental health classes...

It's been an incredible 15 years and we want to share with you Peggy Kubert's, Director of Education, acceptance speech for "The Beacon Award," which she gave at this year's gala! I am honored and proud to have played a part in the shaping of Erika's Lighthouse for...

Erika's Lighthouse is celebrating its 15 year anniversary! I can't believe how much we've grown over the years. In 2004, after the loss of their daughter Erika, founders Ginny and Tom Neuckranz set out to prevent this from ever happening to another child. In April...

Donate to Erika's Lighthouse

Your donation helps us provide school programs free of charge and Get Depression Out of the Dark.
Donate Today

Physical education is required in schools, but what about mental health? Last Fall, New York and Virginia became the first two states to implement a new law which mandates mental health education in schools. This Summer, Florida also made mental health classes...

It's been an incredible 15 years and we want to share with you Peggy Kubert's, Director of Education, acceptance speech for "The Beacon Award," which she gave at this year's gala! I am honored and proud to have played a part in the shaping of Erika's Lighthouse for...

Erika's Lighthouse is celebrating its 15 year anniversary! I can't believe how much we've grown over the years. In 2004, after the loss of their daughter Erika, founders Ginny and Tom Neuckranz set out to prevent this from ever happening to another child. In April...

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A Beacon of Hope for Adolescent Depression | Erika's Lighthouse

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Adolescent depression lives in the shadows. Young people facing it feel isolated and dangerously alone. We help schools create hopeful dialogue so students can talk to each other, to their parents, to their teachers, and to counselors.

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Attitudes In Reverse ® has provided our students with a most important resource. Due to the work of the AIR volunteers, our students know that they are not alone. They learn that the stigma associated with mental illness need not close them off from normal functioning....from happiness. There are people out there who will listen and help them when all seems lost. AIR tells them that they can...that they deserve the help they need.

Mrs. Baker has related to me emails from our students thanking them for opening their eyes to the resources available, and perhaps more importantly, how to be that good listener for others. We hope to continue our relationship with AIR in the future for the benefit of our students.

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Attitudes In Reverse ® has provided our students with a most important resource. Due to the work of the AIR volunteers, our students know that they are not alone. They learn that the stigma associated with mental illness need not close them off from normal functioning....from happiness.

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Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE)

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Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE)

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Suicide Prevention is Everyone's Business

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Whatever you're going through, feeling, or thinking, we are here to listen and support you, 24/7.

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Disclaimer: 2NDFLOOR is a youth helpline designed to listen, help and guide youth in addressing challenges. Periodically, calls may be monitored for quality assurance and training purposes. You are assured anonymity and confidentiality, except in life-threatening situations. When receiving such an emergency phone call, 2NDFLOOR staff will initiate emergency call - trace procedures (within the capability of currently available technology) for police intervention.

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Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide

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Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide

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As an educator, we know you often identify students in your classroom who, for one reason or another seem vulnerable or at risk. But how do you know if what you're seeing is part of the normal ups and downs of adolescence or something more severe?

The strategies we suggest for addressing your concerns are simple: When you observe changes in a student's behavior, pay attention. If the changes concern you, talk with the student if you're comfortable doing so. Feel free to consult your school's resources staff about your observations. Your role in youth suicide prevention is critical-staff who have been educated and have an awareness of youth suicide are a school's greatest prevention resource! SPTS has developed a two-hour suicide awareness training program. For more information about this and our other training materials, please contact us at info@sptsusa.org

ONLINE TRAINING AVAILABLE

ACT on FACTS is an updated version of the Best Practices, free, online training for educators Making Educators Partners in Youth Suicide Prevention offered by the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide. It provides two hours of professional development credit to educators at the discretion of your local school district, but is open to anyone who is interested in reviewing current strategies for youth suicide prevention in schools.

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Suicide Prevention Information for Educators | Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide

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As an educator, we know you often identify students in your classroom who, for one reason or another seem vulnerable or at risk. But how do you know if what you're seeing is part of the normal ups and downs of adolescence or something more severe?

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We give educators the tools to create meaningful discussions about depression

Adolescent depression lives in the shadows. Young people facing it feel isolated and dangerously alone. We help schools create hopeful dialogue so students can talk to each other, to their parents, to their teachers, and to counselors.

Educator Support

As a school partner, we can work with you to make the most of the Erika's Lighthouse programs and help you customize the programs for your school.
How we can support you
Authentic and Accessible Classroom Programs

Our easy-to-implement classroom programs are the product of years of conversations with educators, social workers, and especially teens. Programs are designed to:

Reduce stigmaby dispelling myths

Promote early identification in oneself and others

Encourage early intervention by peers and teachers

Access our programs
We provide teens and parents with a message that instills hope and resources to find help

Teen Depression Toolbox

Worrying that you or someone you love has depression can be overwhelming. You are not alone. Hope and help are possible and it all starts with a little education.
Visit the Toolbox
From Tragedy, Hope

Erika's Lighthouse: A Beacon of Hope for Adolescent Depression was founded in 2004 by Virginia and Thomas Neuckranz after their daughter Erika lost her life to depression. In order to avoid another loss in the community, they founded Erika's Lighthouse with the goal of creating educational materials to Get Depression Out of the Dark.

With help from the community, and from donors nationwide, we've grown and expanded our mission across the country. We know that working together, we can save lives.
Read the story about Erika's Lighthouse
Our school has partnered with Erika's Lighthouse for several years, and I am always impressed with the quality of materials that they produce. Talking about depression can make both teachers and students uncomfortable, but the Erika's Lighthouse programs are designed to decrease the negative attitudes of depression. The programs provide an opportunity for conversations about how students can contribute to a positive mental health culture in their school and community.

Physical education is required in schools, but what about mental health? Last Fall, New York and Virginia became the first two states to implement a new law which mandates mental health education in schools. This Summer, Florida also made mental health classes...

It's been an incredible 15 years and we want to share with you Peggy Kubert's, Director of Education, acceptance speech for "The Beacon Award," which she gave at this year's gala! I am honored and proud to have played a part in the shaping of Erika's Lighthouse for...

Erika's Lighthouse is celebrating its 15 year anniversary! I can't believe how much we've grown over the years. In 2004, after the loss of their daughter Erika, founders Ginny and Tom Neuckranz set out to prevent this from ever happening to another child. In April...

Donate to Erika's Lighthouse

Your donation helps us provide school programs free of charge and Get Depression Out of the Dark.
Donate Today

Physical education is required in schools, but what about mental health? Last Fall, New York and Virginia became the first two states to implement a new law which mandates mental health education in schools. This Summer, Florida also made mental health classes...

It's been an incredible 15 years and we want to share with you Peggy Kubert's, Director of Education, acceptance speech for "The Beacon Award," which she gave at this year's gala! I am honored and proud to have played a part in the shaping of Erika's Lighthouse for...

Erika's Lighthouse is celebrating its 15 year anniversary! I can't believe how much we've grown over the years. In 2004, after the loss of their daughter Erika, founders Ginny and Tom Neuckranz set out to prevent this from ever happening to another child. In April...

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A Beacon of Hope for Adolescent Depression | Erika's Lighthouse

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Adolescent depression lives in the shadows. Young people facing it feel isolated and dangerously alone. We help schools create hopeful dialogue so students can talk to each other, to their parents, to their teachers, and to counselors.

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We share our stories to change young lives. At Minding Your Mind, we create experiences that open minds and show people they are not alone when they are

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Three steps anyone can learn
to help prevent suicide.

QPR and Hope Squad® partner to prevent suicide
Read More

Free download of Paul Quinnett's book
Download PDF

We can all save lives

The QPR mission is to reduce suicidal behaviors and save lives by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training. The signs of crisis are all around us. We believe that quality education empowers all people, regardless of their background, to make a positive difference in the life of someone they know.

Just like CPR, QPR is an emergency response to someone in crisis and can save lives. QPR is the most widely taught Gatekeeper training in the world.

Start Now

Interested in getting your entire organization trained in the life saving techniques of QPR? We offer QPR Online Gatekeeper Training for organizations that need to train large numbers of staff or students.

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Take QPR's industry-leading suicide prevention to the next level with courses designed to teach professionals how to reduce the immediate risk of suicide and provide longer-term care for those at risk.

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Becoming a certified trainer of QPR's industry-leading approach to suicide prevention is an excellent way for individuals and organizations to help empower their communities to effectively intervene on behalf of suicidal and in-crisis people.

Start Now

Are you already an instructor? Login here.

Do you know, love, counsel, or provide care for veterans?

Learn what you need to know to prevent veteran suicide. This course was designed, produced, and reviewed by veterans, for veterans.

Enroll Now

Learn what you need to know to prevent veteran suicide. This course was designed, produced, and reviewed by veterans, for veterans.

Learn More

Concerned about a vet?
Call Vets4Warriors at 1-855-838-8255.

Accreditation

Accreditation

QPR Gatekeeper Training for Suicide Prevention is listed in the National Registry of Evidence-based Practices and Policies.

What People Are Saying About QPR

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QPR Institute | Practical and Proven Suicide Prevention Training

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Three steps anyone can learn to help prevent suicide. QPR and Hope Squad® partner to prevent suicide Read More Free download of Paul Quinnett's book Download PDF The QPR mission is to reduce suicidal behaviors and save lives by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training.

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To find a course or Instructor near you, enter your location below.

Why Mental Health Matters for Youth

One in five youth will experience a mental health challenge at some point during their life.

17.1 million youth under the age of 18 have or have had a psychiatric disorder - more than the number of children with cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined.

7.4% of children in the United States have a mental health visit in a given year.

How Youth Mental Health First Aid Can Help

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Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people.

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Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide

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Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide

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NJ Children's System of Care CSOC Quick Facts about Services 

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NJ Children's System of Care CSOC Quick Facts about Services 

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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

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Learn more about each program and purchase More Than Sad to receive the two More Than Sad films, Teen Depression and Preventing Teen Suicide below. All programs may be delivered in person or virtually.
Please contact your local chapter to request updated More Than Sad materials for each program listed below.
More Than Sad: Teen Depression is an approximately 75-minute program that teaches teens to recognize the signs of depression in themselves and others; challenges existing stigma surrounding depression; and demystifies the treatment process. This program focuses on high school students.

More Than Sad: Parent Education is an approximately 90-minute program that teaches parents how to recognize signs of depression and other mental health problems; initiate a conversation about mental health with their child; and get help. This program focuses on parents and guardians of teen youth. This presentation is also available in Spanish.

More Than Sad: Suicide Prevention Education for Teachers and Other School Personnel is an approximately 120-minute program that teaches educators to recognize signs of mental health distress in students and refer them for help. This suicide prevention program complies with the requirements for teacher education training in many states. This program focuses on high school teachers and other school personnel.

Intended for educators and other school personnel, this film covers mental health conditions, the warning signs of suicide, and the steps they can take to get help for at-risk students.

Intended for teens, parents, and educators, this film teaches students about depression, demystifies treatment, and encourages students who are struggling to seek help.

If you've attended a More Than Sad program, we're excited to hear your feedback. Please choose the link below that best describes your experience with More Than Sad. Your feedback helps make our programs better.

Participants

Facilitators

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More Than Sad has taught over a million students and educators how to be smarter about mental health.

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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

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Skip to content

More Than Sad has taught over a million students and educators how to be smarter about mental health.

In this section

More Than Sad has taught over a million students and educators how to be smarter about mental health.

Purchase More Than Sad to receive the two More Than Sad films, Teen Depression and Preventing Teen Suicide, and download the free facilitator tools for each program below.

High school students

This program teaches teens to recognize the signs of depression in themselves and others, challenges existing stigma surrounding depression, and demystifies the treatment process.

Get materials

Parents

This program teaches parents how to recognize signs of depression and other mental health problems, initiate a conversation about mental health with their child, and get help.

The download below includes both English and Spanish materials.

Get materials

Teachers

This program teaches educators to recognize signs of mental health distress in students and refer them for help. The program complies with the requirements for teacher education suicide prevention training in many states.

Get materials

Preventing Teen Suicide

Intended for educators and other school personnel, this film covers mental health conditions, the warning signs of suicide, and the steps they can take to get help for at-risk students.

Buy the film

Teen Depression

Intended for teens, parents, and educators, this film teaches students about depression, demystifies treatment, and encourages students who are struggling to seek help.

Buy the film

We want your feedback

If you've attended a More Than Sad program, we're excited to hear your feedback. Please choose the link below that best describes your experience with More Than Sad. Your feedback helps make our programs better.

Local chapters near 20149

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Receive updates from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

© 2020 American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. All rights reserved.

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Skip to content More Than Sad has taught over a million students and educators how to be smarter about mental health. In this section More Than Sad has taught over a million students and educators how to be smarter about mental health.

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The heart of Erika's Lighthouse and the foundation for change is education. Through Classroom Programs, Teen Empowerment Clubs and our Parent Handbook we are driven to offer valid and reliable resources that educate and empower. You can take the first step by educating yourself and learning how to talk with and support your teen.

The Parent Handbook on Childhood and Teen Depression is written by parents, for parents to learn about depression, treatment, coping and support. This free, easy-to-read book in both English and Spanish is a starting point for you to learn to help.

Our Depression Discussion Guide was designed specifically to help you engage your teen in a meaningful discussion about depression and mental health.

Erika's Lighthouse has recommended language to help you start a discussion with your teen. If you are concerned, we can help.

Our Teen Toolbox, while designed specifically for teens, is a great resource for you to learn more about what your teen is learning in our program and how you can talk to them.

Host a family game night with our Interactive Jeopardy-like Good Mental Health is for Everyone.

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Resources for Parents | Erika's Lighthouse

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We know that parents can help push education in their community and open up the conversation to help break stigma around teen depression. We know that, together, we can get your child, and children across the country, access to tools and resources in their schools.

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The Steve Fund is dedicated to the mental health and emotional well-being of students of color.

Right at this moment, there are students of color who are failing academically, suffering emotionally and/OR in some cases are facing serious risk, because population-specific factors influencing mental health are too poorly understood and not acted upon. We are taking action. Learn more.

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The Steve Fund - Achieving Equity in Mental Health

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The Steve Fund is dedicated to the mental health and emotional well-being of students of color. Right at this moment, there are students of color who are failing academically, suffering emotionally and/OR in some cases are facing serious risk, because population-specific factors influencing mental health are too poorly understood and not acted upon.

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Transitioning into adulthood can bring big changes and intense challenges. The Jed Foundation (JED) empowers teens and young adults with the skills and support to grow into healthy, thriving adults. Learn how to help yourself, a friend or family member Learn how you can help support teens and young adults

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Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide

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Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide

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We know there may be many reasons for your visit to this site. You may be looking for information about the kinds of programs and services we offer or simply general information about youth suicide prevention. Perhaps you're also checking out links to additional resources.

There may be some of you, however, who are hoping to find information to help you with your own thoughts or feelings about suicide. While this is not something you will specifically find on this site, what we can offer you is the phone number for the national suicide prevention hotline.

Here's why we think this can help: Suicidal thoughts or feelings can make us feel frightened and overwhelmed. We can feel crazy or worried we're going crazy and may be embarrassed to share what we're thinking with others. Or maybe we've tried to talk about it and were dismissed ("Come on, you don't really feel that way!"), or made fun of ("There you go again, you wimpy cry-baby!"), or not taken seriously ("You're always talking about that- one of these days maybe you'll do it"). Perhaps the people we talked to didn't know what to say so they just ignored us and said nothing.

Just because we couldn't find someone who listened in a helpful way, though, doesn't mean we should give up! Talking about suicidal thoughts and feelings-with the right person-can make all the difference in the world.

There's this writer Mary Karr who wrote a poem about suicide and she said, "Your mind's a dangerous neighborhood: don't go there alone."

She knows what she's talking about-when we're in scary places-whether they're in bad neighborhoods or in the dark corners of our mind-we're always better off when we're with someone. And the people who answer the phone at the suicide prevention hotline talk to people who think about suicide all the time-so they know how to listen and walk through those dark corners with us.

Check it out online at: suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

Here's something else we think it's important for you to know:

Lots of people think about suicide at one time or another in their lives, teens included. Usually it's because they're struggling with problems in their lives that seem overwhelming, and they feel trapped, helpless, and hopeless. It isn't that they want to die-they just want to stop feeling miserable. They may be depressed, angry, or empty- but whatever they feel, they're not thinking clearly.

HELP PREVENT TEEN SUICIDE

If you or any of your friends are feeling this way and have had thoughts of suicide, the most important thing to do is to talk immediately with an adult you trust. Sometimes friends tell us things in confidence and make us promise not to tell anyone else. You may have done this yourself. Secrets can take on a life of their own and become even more powerful because they're private. Keeping the secret of suicide doesn't help anyone-it can actually make things worse. Remember, "Friends Help Friends" - so when someone tells you something that worries you, make sure you tell a trusted adult right away.

If you don't know an adult who would be helpful, call that hotline number 1-800-273-8255 and ask them to help you figure out what to do.

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Suicide Prevention Information for Teens | Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide

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We know there may be many reasons for your visit to this site. You may be looking for information about the kinds of programs and services we offer or simply general information about youth suicide prevention. Perhaps you're also checking out links to additional resources.

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You have the power to change the world by shifting your schools' culture to be more positive, inclusive and empathetic on issues surrounding mental health with a Teen Empowerment Club and Awareness into Action Activities.

Teen Empowerment Clubs and Awareness into Action Activities are designed as easy, flexible, and turn-key opportunities to:

Raise awareness

Reduce stigma

Educate your classmates about positive mental health, depression and other mental health challenges

Our team is here to help you every step of the way in making positive changes in your school building.

Learn more about Teen Empowerment Clubs today >

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Resources for Teens | Erika's Lighthouse

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You may be concerned you or a friend might be struggling with depression. Those who are can sometimes feel like they are alone, unloved, and trapped in the shadows. We believe teens can learn to help themselves and others by raising awareness, raising attention, and raising their voices.

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AAKOMA builds the consciousness of youth of color and their caregivers on the recognition and importance of mental health, empowers youth and their families to seek help and manage mental health, and influences systems and services to receive and address the needs of youth of color and their families.

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Welcome

At the AAKOMA Project, we envision:

A world where EVERY child, teen, and young adult (inclusive of all points of diversity) feels the freedom to live unapologetically and authentically within an environment that allows them to rise and thrive.

SO, AAKOMA builds the consciousness of youth of color and their caregivers on the recognition and importance of mental health, empowers youth and their families to seek help and manage mental health, and influences systems and services to receive and address the needs of youth of color and their families.

Welcome to AAKOMA and thanks for joining our community!

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Mental Health Research and Care - AAKOMA Project

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We work with teenagers and their families to raise awareness, conduct patient-centered research, and encourage young people to begin conversations in their communities. At the AAKOMA Project, we believe that everyone - regardless of background, income, or identity - deserves optimal mental health.

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The Steve Fund is dedicated to the mental health and emotional well-being of students of color. Right at this moment, there are students of color who are failing academically, suffering emotionally and/OR in some cases are facing serious risk, because population-specific factors influencing mental health are too poorly understood and not acted upon. We are taking action. Learn more.

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The Steve Fund is dedicated to the mental health and emotional well-being of students of color. Right at this moment, there are students of color who are failing academically, suffering emotionally and/OR in some cases are facing serious risk, because population-specific factors influencing mental health are too poorly understood and not acted upon.

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You can make a difference and help us fight the "Silent Epidemic" of youth suicide.
Below is a list of things you can do in your own community to make a difference.

Educate yourself about the magnitude of the problem, the signs of concern and the tools of prevention. You can educate yourself by visiting our Rascal Flatts B1 Project and take the pledge at www.rascalflattsb1.com. Encourage your friends to take the pledge and B1 too.

Take the #IWONTBESILENT challenge and get your friends talking about the problem of youth suicide. Share iwontbesilent.com or wewontbesilent.com. Use the #iwontbesilent or #wewontbesilent on all of your social media accounts.

Be there for a friend by being observant, asking questions, listening, responding and get help for your friend.

Never keep a friends suicidal thoughts to yourself. Know who you can turn to for help and guidance such as a parent, teacher, coach or a trusted adult to seek professional help.

Encourage your school to hold a suicide prevention week.

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You can make a difference and help us fight the "Silent Epidemic" of youth suicide. Below is a list of things you can do in your own community to make a difference. Educate yourself about the magnitude of the problem, the signs of concern and the tools of prevention.

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You can make a difference and help us fight the "Silent Epidemic" of youth suicide.

Below is a list of things you can do in your own community to make a difference.

Educate yourself about the magnitude of the problem, the signs of concern and the tools of prevention.

Encourage your school or organization to incorporate The Jason Foundation school-based curriculum into their guidance or health/wellness programs. Click here to learn more.

Encourage your school or organization to provide staff development training for all school personnel. Click here to learn more.

Encourage your school or organization to place The Jason Foundations Parent Resource Program on their website. Schools and organizations can contact us to receive the instructions and button.

Encourage your school or organization to hold a suicide prevention week.

Encourage other local service organizations, churches and community centers to become aware of the problem of youth suicide and its prevention opportunities.

Watch and listen to your students and pay attention to sudden changes in behavior that cause you concern.

Know your school protocol for emergency/crisis situations.

Use the Community Assistance Resource Line (C.A.R.L.) to talk with a professional, about any concerns you have about a young person or a situation. The C.A.R.L. Line is answered 24/7, is confidential and is provided at no-cost. 1-877-778-CARL (2275)

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Educator, Youth Worker, Coach - jasonfoundation

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You can make a difference and help us fight the "Silent Epidemic" of youth suicide. Below is a list of things you can do in your own community to make a difference. Educate yourself about the magnitude of the problem, the signs of concern and the tools of prevention.

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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

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The AFSP-produced film It's Real: College Students and Mental Health is designed to raise awareness about mental health issues commonly experienced by students, and is intended to be used as part of a school's educational program to encourage help-seeking.

By featuring real stories and experiences, It's Real conveys that depression and other mental health conditions are real illnesses that can be managed through specific treatments and interventions. It encourages students to be mindful of the state of their mental health, to acknowledge and recognize when they are struggling, and to take steps to seek help.

This 17-minute film is accompanied by facilitator's tools and resources, including a Facilitator's Guide containing talking points and additional information, and is intended as a group presentation. The film and facilitator tools may be purchased in either DVD or Digital Download formats.

Contact your local chapter to bring It's Real to a campus near you, or purchase directly using one of the two links below.

Click here for templates and forms to use at your next It's Real program event.

Special thanks to our marketing sponsor, J.B. Hunt.

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It's Real: College Students and Mental Health

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The AFSP-produced film It's Real: College Students and Mental Health is designed to raise awareness about mental health issues commonly experienced by students, and is intended to be used as part of a school's educational program to encourage help-seeking.

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Educators and school personnel play a vital role in promoting mental health and well-being and identifying and responding to emerging mental illness in children and adolescents. However, they often have not received the education, training, and/or ongoing support needed to respond in the classroom.

To address this need,the MHTTC Network, in partnership with the National Center for School Mental Health at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, has developed a FREE self-guided online course, video library + resource collection, and a website focused on educator mental health literacy. The 3-part training package, Classroom WISE (Well-Being Information and Strategies for Educators), was informed by and co-developed with educators from across the nation.

These resources will present concrete, universal approaches to promoting student mental health and creating safe and supportive classroom environments, describe student behaviors that may indicate a mental health concern, and provide specific skills and strategies to engage and support students with mental health concerns. Catch a SNEAK PEEK below! Complete access to the training package is now available at www.classroomwise.org.

Note: We encourage you to share the information about Classroom WISE widely with your colleagues - a flyer to disseminate is availablehere.

Access Classroom WISE by visiting www.classroomwise.org

Classroom WISE Online Course Modules

Upon completion of this course, the educator will be equipped with strategies that can be used to promote student mental health and support students experiencing adversity, distress, and mental health challenges in the classroom. A detailed list of course objectives is available here.

The 5-hour self-paced course will be available on June 21, 2021, free of cost on the Healtheknowledge platform. The HealtheKnowledge online learning portal offers a wide variety of courses in the areas of improving health and healthcare services.

Course Certificate of Completion

A free certificate of completion will be provided to participants upon completion of the course requirements.

Classroom WISE Video Library

Access over 50 brief, high-impact and engaging videos of students and educators giving examples to help allstudents feel welcome in the classroom. The videos are embedded in the Classroom WISE online course and also available as stand-alone resources for educators and school personnel on the Classroom WISE website here.

Classroom WISE Resource Collection

Identifying Student Distress, Tips for Starting Mental Health Conversations, Creating Mental Health Bulletin Boards are just some of the Classroom WISE resources available. This ever-evolving collection includes resources created to supplement the Classroom WISE online course, as well as resources from other mental health and school organizations. Access this resource collection on the Classroom WISE website here.

Coming soon! A Companion Course to Classroom WISE

A new companion course to Classroom WISE, the Cultural Inclusiveness and Equity WISE (Well-Being Information and Strategies for Educators), is coming soon. Educators will learn how inequities in education impact student mental health and how implicit bias influences our perceptions and responses. Building on this foundation, educators will learn culturally inclusive classroom strategies to support student mental health. Learn more here!

Subscribe to our MHTTC monthly e-newsletter to receive updates on Classroom WISE, and gain access to other resources for educators and school personnel related to student mental health! Questions? Contact the MHTTC Network Coordinating Office at [email protected] .

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Now Available: Free Online Course for Educators on Mental Health Literacy

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Educators and school personnel play a vital role in promoting mental health and well-being and identifying and responding to emerging mental illness in children and adolescents. However, they often have not received the education, training, and/or ongoing support needed to respond in the classroom.

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SAMSHA: Preventing Suicide: A Toolkit for High Schools

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SAMSHA: Preventing Suicide: A Toolkit for High Schools

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Preventing Suicide: A Toolkit for High Schools | SAMHSA Publications and Digital Products

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Higher Hope relates to less violence and weapon carrying at school Higher hope is a better predictor of academic success than IQ Hope is teachable Hopeful Minds shows promise to reduce anxiety, increase hope and improve emotional regulation skills in youth #Hope #TimeToAct #HopefulMinds

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Transitioning into adulthood can bring big changes and intense challenges. The Jed Foundation (JED) empowers teens and young adults with the skills and support to grow into healthy, thriving adults. Learn how to help yourself, a friend or family member Learn how you can help support teens and young adults

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Each of Wayfinder's three social emotional learning (SEL) and mental health curriculums have been thoughtfully incubated with the design thinking process of the Stanford d. school K-12 lab. The content draws upon purpose development research, thousands of empathy interviews with students, teachers and other "purpose exemplars," as well as practices from nature-based Wayfinding traditions.

Wayfinder curriculum is available digitally and in print. Whether you find yourself in a virtual classroom, physical classroom, or moving between both, our custom designed program allows our teachers and students to journey seamlessly through the Wayfinder experience.

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Each of Wayfinder's three social emotional learning (SEL) and mental health curriculums have been thoughtfully incubated with the design thinking process of the Stanford d. school K-12 lab. The content draws upon purpose development research, thousands of empathy interviews with students, teachers and other "purpose exemplars," as well as practices from nature-based Wayfinding traditions.

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Supporting communities to accelerate the use of PACEs science...to solve our most intractable problems.

We are the human and digital catalyst that unites the people, organizations, systems and communities in the worldwide PACEs movement. We are its main information exchange and resource. And we are a support for hundreds of local, state and national ACEs initiatives.

PACEs= positive & adverse childhood experiences

PACEs Connection supports hundreds of local ACEs initiatives in neighborhoods, cities, counties, states and nations. We provide initiatives with a free community site on PACEs Connection, guidelines on how to launch and grow local PACEs initiatives, and tools to automatically track their growth. For established initiatives, we offer access to more powerful and advanced tools, guidelines and services in the PACEs Connection Cooperative of Communities to help initiatives easily measure their progress and track outcomes. We also have interest-based communities, such as PACEs in Education and Parenting with PACEs. Our goal is to help initiatives share policies and practices to leverage their community's ideas, successes and challenges to solve their most intractable problems using PACEs science.

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Supporting communities to accelerate the use of PACEs science...to solve our most intractable problems. We are the human and digital catalyst that unites the people, organizations, systems and communities in the worldwide PACEs movement. We are its main information exchange and resource. And we are a support for hundreds of local, state and national ACEs initiatives.

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For Elementary School Students

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Read Gizmo's Pawesome Guide to Mental Health in PDF or Order a Hard Copy

Gizmo Book and Plushie
Proceeds from sales support the Gizmo Initiative.

Host a Read Along with Gizmo's Pawesome Guide to Mental Health

Are you hosting a "Read Along" with the Gizmo book? We'd love to know how it goes. Use the button below to share your story.
Read Along Resources

Books and Movies Gizmo's Pawesome Word Searches: Gizmo's Pawesome Dog Find Games: Gizmo's Pawesome Puzzles: Gizmo's Pawesome Activity Pages:

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Read Gizmo's Pawesome Guide to Mental Health in PDF or Order a Hard Copy Host a Read Along with Gizmo's Pawesome Guide to Mental Health Are you hosting a "Read Along" with the Gizmo book? We'd love to know how it goes. Use the button below to share your story.

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Emotionally Naked: A Teacher's Guide to Preventing Suicide and Recognizing Students at Risk  

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Emotionally Naked: A Teacher's Guide to Preventing Suicide and Recognizing Students at Risk  

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Estimated publication date August 2021. The purpose of this book is not to turn teachers into therapists but given the pervasive public health problem of suicide in our youth, it’s a critical conversation that all educators need to feel comfortable having. Educators will learn evidence-based concepts of suicide prevention, plus lesser known innovative strategies and small culture shifts for the classroom to facilitate connection and healthy coping strategies, the foundation of suicide prevention.

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In Emotionally Naked: A Teacher's Guide to Preventing Suicide and Recognizing Students at Risk, trainer, speaker, and suicide loss survivor Anne Moss Rogers, and clinical social worker and researcher, Kimberly O'Brien, PhD, LICSW, empower middle and high school educators with the knowledge and skills to leverage their relationships with students to reduce this threat to life.

The purpose of this book is not to turn teachers into therapists but given the pervasive public health problem of suicide in our youth, it's a critical conversation that all educators need to feel comfortable having. Educators will learn evidence-based concepts of suicide prevention, plus lesser known innovative strategies and small culture shifts for the classroom to facilitate connection and healthy coping strategies, the foundation of suicide prevention. Included is commentary from teachers, school psychologists, experts in youth suicidology, leaders from mental health nonprofits, program directors, and students. In addition, readers will find practical tips, and sample scripts, with innovative activities that can be incorporated into teaching curricula.

You'll learn about:

The teacher's role in suicide prevention, intervention, postvention, collaboration

The different and often cryptic ways students indicate suicidality

What to do/say when a student tells you they are thinking of suicide

Small shifts that can create a suicide-prevention classroom/school environment

How to address a class of grieving students and the empty desk syndrome

Link to a download of resources, worksheets, activities, scripts, quizzes, and more

Who is it for:

Middle/high school teachers and educators, school counselors, nurses, psychologists, coaches, and administrators, as well as parents who wish to better understand the complex subject of youth suicide.

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emotionally naked: a teacher's guide to preventing suicide and recognizing students at risk

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youth suicide; child suicide; suicide prevention; suicidal thoughts; postvention; postvention training; postvention resources; suicide attempt; suicidal behaviors; suicide conversations; suicide prevention training; suicide prevention resource; student suicide; teen suicide; how teachers can help students with mental health <

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youth suicide; child suicide; suicide prevention; suicidal thoughts; postvention; postvention training; postvention resources; suicide attempt; suicidal behaviors; suicide conversations; suicide prevention training; suicide prevention resource; student suicide; teen suicide; how teachers can help students with mental health

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education / counseling / crisis management

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youth suicide; child suicide; suicide prevention; suicidal thoughts; postvention; postvention training; postvention resources; suicide attempt; suicidal behaviors; suicide conversations; suicide prevention training; suicide prevention resource; student suicide; teensuicide; how teachers can help students with mental health

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education / counseling / crisis management

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Emotionally Naked: A Teacher's Guide to Preventing Suicide and Recognizing Students at Risk

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Amazon.com: Emotionally Naked: A Teacher's Guide to Preventing Suicide and Recognizing Students at Risk (9781119758303): Rogers, Anne Moss, O'Brien, Kim: Books

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How to talk to your child about a suicide attempt in your family

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How to talk to your child about a suicide attempt in your family

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Supporting Children & Teens after a suicide death

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Supporting Children & Teens after a suicide death

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Supporting Children & Teens after a suicide death

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Supporting Children & Teens after a suicide death

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Balanced Mind Parent Network - Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance

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Complementary Health Online support community for parents of children, teens or young adults interested in treating mood disorders with complementary health approaches Residential Treatment Centers Online support community for parents considering, or who have a child in, a residential treatment facility Stability Online support community for parents whose child(ren) are

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Have you had suicidal thoughts? Problems that felt unsolvable? You are in excellent company - we've been there. Now Matters Now hacks suffering Watch Videos

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the friend and family of a suicide attempt survivor. Equally important, I have joined forces with many other families and friends because no family or friend with a loved one who has struggled with a suicidal crisis should have to walk this path alone. Is There a Need?

Throughout my life I've been involved in a number of organizations as an employee, consultant or volunteer. Many had a basic criteria that must be met before money is spent, a new program developed or action taken - Is There a Need?

So, the question related to this workbook and its companion workshop was, " Is there a need?"

Yes, there is. It boils down to the fact that millions of people are impacted by suicide every year. For some, it's the loss of a loved one to suicide. For others, it's the terrifying discovery that a loved one is contemplating suicide or has already made an attempt or several attempts.

"Will they make another attempt?" can linger in the dark recesses of our minds for a lifetime. And that's fear personified.
We are blessed to have resources for loss survivors - those left behind by the death of a loved. We need much more. We are grateful that doors are being cracked open to recognize the value of the lived and learned experience and expertise of suicide attempt survivors. With that said, as you read this, there is next to nothing to help support friends and families of suicide attempt survivors to find their way free from the anxiety and stress, darkness and anger, frustration and a sense of helplessness...to find their way to the path of freedom from fear. That bothers me.

As a woman who survived brutal violence, I know their fear. The more I began to write this workbook and prepared to present the retreat workshop, the more I realized how much domestic violence victims have in common with friends and family of attempt survivors. And once I had that "light bulb" moment, the writing came swiftly but not easily. It meant taking an inward journey back to the nightmare, the pain and the suffering, things I've long since moved on from - but that's the point: perhaps I can share a little bit about how I did that and just maybe help others find that precious inner peace we all seek or at least to begin the journey. Because during this writing journey, I had another "light bulb" moment - I am
​

Annemarie Matulis, Is This the Night: Finding Inner Peace

​copyright (c) 2017 Annemarie Matulis All rights reserved.

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the friend and family of a suicide attempt survivor. Equally important, I have joined forces with many other families and friends because no family or friend with a loved one who has struggled with a suicidal crisis should have to walk this path alone. Is There a Need?

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Resilient Together: Coping with Loss at School

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Resilient Together: Coping with Loss at School

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Resilient Together: Coping with Loss at School | Kognito

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An interactive role-play simulation to prepare schools for responding to a death in the school community. Teachers and administrators learn key elements of a crisis response plan, including postvention, and best practices for communicating with those impacted by a loss in the school.

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Suicide Prevention, Intervention, Postvention Step by Step

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Suicide Prevention, Intervention, Postvention Step by Step

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Teens are available to help daily from 4-10pm PST (adults are available by phone at all other times!).

YouthLine is a free, confidential teen-to-teen crisis and help line. Contact us with anything that may be bothering you. No problem is too big or too small for the YouthLine!

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YouthLine * A teen crisis helpline with teen to teen support

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Teens are available to help daily from 4-10pm PST (adults are available by phone at all other times!). YouthLine is a free, confidential teen-to-teen crisis and help line. Contact us with anything that may be bothering you. No problem is too big or too small for the YouthLine!

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At Risk  from preschool through high school

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At Risk  from preschool through high school

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Learn how Kognito's role-play simulation platform is enabling conversations that improve mental, emotional, and physical health in our communities.

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ED Department Suicide Prevention for patients and providers

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Standardized Suicide Risk Assessment
Jaspr Health's digital assistant collects comprehensive suicide risk assessment data and guides the patient to draft a crisis stability plan to cope and reduce access to lethal means.

Optimized Workflow
Integrated into your organization's workflow to best provide support for your staff.

Clinical Decision Support
Easy-to-use clinical decision support aids disposition decisions and evidence-based care.

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Standardized Suicide Risk Assessment Jaspr Health's digital assistant collects comprehensive suicide risk assessment data and guides the patient to draft a crisis stability plan to cope and reduce access to lethal means. Optimized Workflow Integrated into your organization's workflow to best provide support for your staff.

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This online community is a place where people living and working in New Jersey can come together to help prevent adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and create a healthier, happier state. This public online learning group was created by the NJ ACEs Collaborative , the newly established Office of Resilience , the Center for Health Care Strategies , and the New Jersey Education Association - but it is made stronger by the involvement and active participation of all New Jerseyans! Our mission...

The Law and Disability Conference is held each year at the New Jersey Law Center and is cosponsored with the Community Health Law Project . This year, we will be pivoting to an online format due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The topics for the 2021 Law and Disability Conference will include: supportive housing, special needs trusts, Medicaid eligibility and transition from children's to adult system of care. The 2021 Conference will be held Wednesday, May 5, 2021 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Environmental Regulatory Enhancement The Administration for Children and Families, Administration for Native Americans announces the availability of Fiscal Year 2021 funds for community-based projects for the Environmental Regulatory Enhancement (ERE) program. The ERE program provides funding for the costs of planning, developing, and implementing programs designed to improve the capability of tribal governing bodies to regulate environmental quality pursuant to federal and tribal...

NEW YORK (WABC) -- On Saturday, May 8, WABC-TV will air a special entitled "PROTECT OUR CHILDREN: EFFECTS OF THE PANDEMIC" at 7 p.m. ET. The program is hosted by Eyewitness News Anchor Shirleen Allicot, and will focus on the continued impact the pandemic has had on youth, with advice from professionals on how we can address and improve the mental, emotional and physical health of youth. Despite the ongoing pandemic, the special shares stories of individuals who faced difficult challenges and...

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Home | NJ Resiliency Coalition | PACEsConnection

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This online community is a place where people living and working in New Jersey can come together to help prevent adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and create a healthier, happier state.

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TREP  Trauma Educational Response Project

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TREP  Trauma Educational Response Project

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The TREP Project began in response to the needs of schools serving students living in neighborhoods with higher levels of violent crime.

Violent crime-particularly violence that occurs in public spaces-is largely contained within the neighborhoods with the highest concentrations of poor families. And because of America's history of racial redlining, the most disadvantaged neighborhoods are often also the ones with the highest concentrations of Black families.

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The TREP Project began in response to the needs of schools serving students living in neighborhoods with higher levels of violent crime. Violent crime-particularly violence that occurs in public spaces-is largely contained within the neighborhoods with the highest concentrations of poor families.

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Welcome! I'm so glad you found us. My wish is that this site will make it easy for you to find comprehensive information and resources to help your child get back to school.

I am really sorry if your family is struggling. I do remember those days, and some were very difficult.

Know that there is hope for your child and your family. You can get your child back to school and your family back on course. This is a period of time in your life that is a challenge, but it won't always be this way.

Our family went through the challenging road of school refusal with my son. He struggled with school avoidance for many years. I am happy to share that he was able to get back to school. I am grateful that he enjoyed his last few years of high school, went to college, supports himself, and doesn't live in my house!!

As you know, when your child is suffering, you are too. Just as it can be challenging to find the right help, it is also hard to find other parents to connect to for advice, empathy, and support. We get it and are here for you.

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School Refusal Hope | Connecting Parents and Providers

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Help and guidance for your child's school refusal. We list some of the best inpatient treatment programs, partial and outpatient programs for school refusal, as well as therapeutic boarding schools.. We provide understandable explanations about your child's right to a free and appropriate public edu

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NJ Youth Suicide Prevention Advisory Council

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NJ Youth Suicide Prevention Advisory Council

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Monthly meetings are held the 3rd Thursday of every month. Meetings are open to the public and are currently meeting via zoom. Contact Co-Chair Wendy Sefcik for more information at wendy@sefcikprod.com

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Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy and the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) is committed to decreasing youth suicide. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for New Jersey youth between 10 and 24 years of age.
If your life or someone else's is in imminent danger, call 911.

If you are in crisis and need immediate help, please call the New Jersey Suicide Prevention Hopeline at 1-855-654-6735
www.njhopeline.com.
The Hopeline is New Jersey's peer support and suicide prevention hotline. It is staffed by mental health professionals and peer support specialists 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service is available to all ages for confidential telephone support (except when a suicide attempt is in progress), assessment, and referral. Crisis chat is available through the website and the service can be reached by texting njhopeline@ubhc.rutgers.edu.

Screening and Screening Outreach Programs

Mobile Response and Crisis Screening

Traumatic Loss Coalitions for Youth Program

New Jersey Youth Suicide Prevention Advisory Council

New Jersey Youth Suicide Report

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DCF | New Jersey Youth Suicide Prevention

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Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy and the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) is committed to decreasing youth suicide. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for New Jersey youth between 10 and 24 years of age. If your life or someone else's is in imminent danger, call 911.

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This newly designed two part training consists of a webinar and full day training. Umatter for Schools Suicide Prevention national best practice program for suicide prevention developed by the Center for Health and Learning. These trainings are created for Vermont middle and high schools to meet the requirements of Vermont state law.

Schools are encouraged to send teams consisting of an administrator, guidance counselor, nurse, health educator, and/or mental health provider. Schools who have sent teams in the past are encouraged to send newly hired or assigned staff to support mental health and suicide prevention strategies in the school.

At the end of this training, participants will be prepared to:
* Identify and help youth who show signs of suicide
* Provide parent and staff awareness sessions
* Develop prevention/postvention policies and protocols
* Implement the Lifelines evidence-based curriculum for students (published by Hazleden Publishers- Click here to view)

Program Components:

PART ONE: Webinar: Introduction to Gatekeeper Training with Updated Information

PART TWO: Umatter for Schools Full Day Training

OPTIONAL ADD-On: Consultation and Support to help you implement strategies of suicide prevention in your school.

If you would like to learn more about implementing the Umatter for Schools in your organization, please contact us at info@healthandlearning.org

To download a PDF which describes all of our Umatter Programs, click HERE

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This newly designed two part training consists of a webinar and full day training. Umatter for Schools Suicide Prevention national best practice program for suicide prevention developed by the Center for Health and Learning. These trainings are created for Vermont middle and high schools to meet the requirements of Vermont state law.

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Does You School have a Plan for tragic loss?  

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Does You School have a Plan for tragic loss?  

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Does your school have a plan for tragic loss? | David Aderhold

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PAX Good Behavior Game

The PAX Good Behavior Game (PAX GBG) is an Evidence-based Practice that comes recommended by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA), the Washington State Institute for Public Policy, and the Institute of Medicine.

PAX GBG creates changes in behavior; and neurochemical, neural connectivity, and epigenetic make-up that strengthen inhibition, extend self-regulation, and improve social-emotional scaffolding. PAX is the only classroom-based strategy shown to cause the expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) genes that serve as adaptive protections for young people through adulthood and into future generations.

The strategies in PAX GBG have been subjected to multiple randomized control trials and numerous peer-reviewed studies. PAX has shown to provide numerous early benefits and lifetime impacts.

In an effort to prevent circumstances contributing to the Opiate Epidemic, the state of Ohio launched a large-scale expansion of the PAX Good Behavior Game in Ohio schools.

In addition to teaching self-regulation in young people with dramatic effects on behavior, academics, PAX GBG also has documented long-term outcomes including increased high school graduation rates and 64% reduction in lifetime opiate misuse among students who have had PAX.

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This initiative trained:

6,100 teachers in the PAX Good Behavior Game.

217 Ohio Pre-service teacher candidates in the PAX Good Behavior Game.

533 professionals as PAX Partners to support, sustain, and expand Ohio schools' use of the PAX Good Behavior Game.

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Of the Ohio teachers trained in this initiative:

80% noticed using fewer reprimands in the classroom after using PAX Good Behavior Game with their students.

71% reported improvements in their own mental and physical health after using the PAX Good Behavior Game with their students.

96% noted the behavioral health strategies in PAX Good Behavior Game were consistent with their schoolwide behavior policies.

99% of teachers left PAX Good Behavior Game training confident using the strategies effectively with their students with significant behavioral difficulties.

As a result of this initiative:

Over 13,000 fewer Ohio children will likely need special education services.

Nearly 22,000 more Ohio students are likely to graduate from high school.

Over 20,600 more Ohio students are likely to enter college.

Nearly 1,500 fewer Ohio young adults are likely to commit and be convicted of serious violent crimes by the time they reach adulthood.

Over 14,600 fewer Ohio young people are likely to develop opioid and other drug addictions by the time they reach adulthood.

Nearly 10,000 fewer Ohio young people are likely to attempt suicide.

Learn more about the impacts of PAX Implementation in Ohio

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PAX Good Behavior Game | PAXIS Institute 2020

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PAX Good Behavior Game The PAX Good Behavior Game (PAX GBG) is an Evidence-based Practice that comes recommended by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA), the Washington State Institute for Public Policy, and the Institute of Medicine.

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Youth Aware of Mental health, also known as YAM, is a school-based program for young people ages 13 to 17 in which they learn about and explore the topic of mental health. YAM is an evidence-based program taking place in classrooms around the world.

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HOW CAMS-CARE ADDRESSES MENTAL HEALTH IN NEW JERSEY

The CAMS Framework has been proven through multiple randomized clinical trials to be the best assessment, intervention and treatment to reduce suicide ideation. Mental health professionals have reported that the CAMS Framework has given them a way to confidently treat suicidal patients effectively in only 6-8 sessions. And, more importantly, patients have reported that they like using the CAMS Framework. It is recommended by such groups as the Zero Suicide Initiative, the Center for Disease Control (CDC), and the Sentinel Event Alert (PDF) by the Joint Commission.

While it is important that communities learn how to identify the signs of suicide risk (often referred to as "gatekeeper" training), and maintain local suicide prevention crisis lines, it is crucial to have a network of healthcare providers in place and trained in evidence-base suicide-specific treatment to whom people identified as suicidal may be immediately referred. Such suicide-specific treatment is not generally available in emergency departments.

Because CAMS is a flexible Framework, it can be easily adapted to cultural preferences, various populations and clinical settings, such as active-duty military, veterans, tribal, adolescents, children, community mental health, crisis centers, employee assistance programs, forensic settings, inpatient, outpatient, primary care, school settings, telehealth and University Counseling Centers.

The impact of suicide in New Jersey affects all communities but may be felt even harder in rural areas of the state where resources for prevention, identification, and treatment are less accessible and residents face more extreme health and economic disparities than their urban counterparts. One strategy to address this is to provide mental health care to rural communities through telehealth. CAMS has been successfully administered using telepsychology in a variety of settings, including rural and frontier regions of the intermountain West of the United States, and the U.S. Army's Warrior Resiliency Program in San Antonio, Texas for suicidal soldiers in geographically remote locations. CAMS is a highly interactive and collaborative structure that engages the patient in their own treatment and has been shown to be effective across a variety of settings.

CAMS-care offers several training options to meet various learning styles and budgets, as well as the challenges of remote rural communities. The CAMS treatment is available via online training, in-person role-play training, consultation calls, ZOOM training, and more.

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New Jersey Suicide Prevention Clinicians | CAMS-care

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The CAMS Framework has been proven through multiple randomized clinical trials to be the best assessment, intervention and treatment to reduce suicide ideation. Mental health professionals have reported that the CAMS Framework has given them a way to confidently treat suicidal patients effectively in only 6-8 sessions.

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Mental Health Association Monmouth County

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Mental Health Association Monmouth County

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Mental Health Association of Monmouth County

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Established in 1950, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County is an affiliate of the national nonprofit Mental Health America. Our professional staff has been on the forefront of creating a meaningful system of mental health care that strategically focuses on eliminating social barriers and mental health discrimination. With over 15 free programs and services, we create healthy communities of the future.

To promote mental health as a critical component of overall wellness, including prevention services for all, early identification and intervention for those at risk, integrated care and treatment for those who need it, with recovery as the goal.

Our mission is accomplished through our strength-based programs, education, advocacy, community partnerships, and the shaping of public policy.

To build a just, humane, and healthy society in which people are accorded dignity and the opportunity to achieve their full potential free from stigma, prejudice, and other barriers to care and recovery.

Encourage growth and independence through housing and financial stability.

Expand social services, community outreach, and education.

Improve the function and quality of life for individuals and families.

Provide healthy opportunities for youth at risk.

Mental Health America understands that racism undermines mental health. Therefore, we are committed to anti-racism in all that we do. This means we pledge to work against individual racism, interpersonal racism, and institutional racism in all their forms.

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Our Mission | Mental Health Association of Monmouth County

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Established in 1950, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County is an affiliate of the national nonprofit Mental Health America. Our professional staff has been on the forefront of creating a meaningful system of mental health care that strategically focuses on eliminating social barriers and mental health discrimination.

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The Lifelines Prevention student curriculum (formerly known as the Lifelines Curriculum) is one component of Lifelines: Helping A Comprehensive Suicide Awareness and Responsiveness Program for Teens, a comprehensive, schoolwide suicide prevention program for middle and high schools. The goal of the overall Lifelines program is to promote a caring, competent school community in which help-seeking is encouraged and modeled and suicidal behavior is recognized as an issue that cannot be kept secret. Lifelines aims to increase the likelihood that school staff and students will be able and willing to identify at-risk youth when they encounter them, provide an appropriate initial response, and obtain help. Lifelines includes a set of sequential components, including reviewing available resources and establishing administrative guidelines and procedures for responding to students at risk; training school faculty and staff to prepare them for their role in identifying and responding to suicidal students; providing a workshop and informational materials to parents; and implementing a curriculum for students to educate them about suicidal behavior and discuss their role in suicide prevention.

The outcomes listed below are based on research that assessed only the Lifelines Prevention student curriculum, the educational component for students that is implemented last in the sequence. The student curriculum consists of four 45-minute or two 90-minute lessons that incorporate elements of the social development model and employ interactive teaching techniques, including role-play. Health teachers and/or guidance counselors teach the lessons within the regular school health curriculum. These lessons were developed specifically for students in grades 8-10 but can be used with students through 12th grade. The curriculum manual and materials are available from Hazelden Publishing for a fee.
Designation as a "Program with Evidence of Effectiveness"
SPRC designated the Lifelines Prevention student curriculum as a "program with evidence of effectiveness" based on its inclusion in SAMHSA's National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices (NREPP).

Outcome(s) Reviewed (Overall Quality of Research Rating-scale of 0 to 4)*

1: Student knowledge about suicide (2.9)
2: Student attitudes about suicide and suicide intervention (2.9)
3: Student attitudes about seeking adult help (2.9)
4: Student attitudes about keeping a friend's suicide thoughts a secret (2.9)

Read more about the program's ratings.

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* NREPP changed its review criteria in 2015. This program is a "legacy program," meaning that it was reviewed under the pre-2015 criteria.The evidence for each outcome was reviewed and scored on a scale of 0-4, with 4 indicating the highest quality of evidence and 0 indicating very poor quality of evidence. The overall rating was based on ratings of six criteria: 1) reliability of measures, 2) validity of measures, 3) intervention fidelity, 4) missing data and attrition, 5) potential confounding variables, and 6) appropriateness of analysis. When considering programs, we recommend (a) assessing whether the specific outcomes achieved by the program are a fit for your needs; and (b) examining the strength of evidence for each outcome.

Implementation Essentials

Before implementing Lifelines, schools should develop linkages with local mental health services.

2012 NSSP Objectives Addressed:

Objective 5.2: Encourage community-based settings to implement effective programs and provide education that promote wellness and prevent suicide and related behaviors.

Objective 7.1: Provide training on suicide prevention to community groups that have a role in the prevention of suicide and related behaviors.

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The Lifelines Prevention student curriculum (formerly known as the Lifelines Curriculum) is one component of Lifelines: Helping A Comprehensive Suicide Awareness and Responsiveness Program for Teens, a comprehensive, schoolwide suicide prevention program for middle and high schools.

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SOS:  Signs of Suicide for middle school and highschool

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SOS:  Signs of Suicide for middle school and highschool

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It appears that you might be using an outdated browser. Some features of our site may not work.
For an optimal browsing experience, we recommend installing Google Chrome or Firefox.

With guidance from national suicide prevention experts, partners, and members of the National Association of School Psychologists, MindWise has enhanced SOS to best equip students - remotely or in-person - with the critical life skills needed to monitor and respond to changes in their well-being.

The SOS Signs of Suicide Program

SOS Signs of Suicide teaches students how to identify signs of depression and suicide in themselves and their peers, while training school professionals, parents, and community members to recognize at-risk students and take appropriate action.

Using SOS, 90% of schools have seen an increase in students seeking help for themselves or a friend, with 95% believing the program also reduced stigma in schools.

How it Works

SOS has shown a 64% reduction in self-reported suicide attempts.

The program teaches students how to identify signs of depression and suicide through:

updated training for in-person, virtual, or hybrid classrooms

new middle & high school videos

detailed discussion guides

brief depression screening

annual refresher content

virtual training resources for faculty and parents

and much more

After Delivering SOS to Students, Schools Reported:

believed students learned to identify signs of depression and suicide

saw an increase in students seeking help for themselves or a friend

felt there was reduced behavioral health stigma among students

Additional Training is Available

While there is no training or certification required to start using SOS in your school, we offer virtual or in-person Train-the-Trainer workshops nationally for schools or organizations seeking additional support.

"SOS has been shown to reduce suicidal ideation in middle school students and suicide attempts in high school students.

If your administrators do not know where to begin, suggest SOS."

The American Association of Suicidology

Do you need any credentials or training to train students using SOS?

No additional training or qualifications are needed to provide evidence-based suicide prevention education to your students. SOS facilitators include school counselors, social workers, psychologists, and classroom teachers.

We do offer an in-person SOS Train-the-Trainer for schools or organizations looking for additional support.

How long does it take to train students?

SOS student training takes as little as one class period of about 50 minutes. Optional supplemental lesson plans and refresher videos allow facilitators to provide additional training.

How many programs should I purchase?

Program pricing is based on a one-program-per-school model. Within a school, the student video can be streamed into as many classrooms as you choose simultaneously, and you may download and print as many copies of program materials as you need for your students, faculty/staff, and parents.

SOS operates on a subscription basis. Your initial purchase will give you access for one year from the date of purchase - after that, you can renew your program at our renewal price.

Can SOS be taught virtually?

Yes! In light of COVID-19's impact on school openings, MindWise has adapted the SOS curriculum to ensure middle and high school students understand how to identify signs of suicide and depression in themselves and their peers whether at home or in-person, while training school professionals, parents, and community members to recognize at-risk students and take appropriate action.

SOS Scholarship Program

At MindWise, we believe suicide prevention education should be available to all students. For schools struggling to cover the cost of SOS, scholarships are available thanks to the generosity of our partners.

Have questions about how SOS can work for your school?

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Prevent Youth Suicide Today with SOS Signs of Suicide - MindWise Innovations

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It appears that you might be using an outdated browser. Some features of our site may not work.For an optimal browsing experience, we recommend installing Google Chrome or Firefox.

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Relias Suicide Prevention Training for Providers

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Relias Suicide Prevention Training for Providers

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See how Relias helps you have a significant impact on reducing suicide attempts. Our data-driven approach can reduce the monetary, and emotional, cost of suicide.

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Are you worried about your child? We offer education and therapeutic support to empower and give you hope as you support your child's mental health. Get started free Are you worried about your child? We offer education and therapeutic support to empower and give you hope as you support your child's mental health.

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Are you worried about your child? We offer education and therapeutic support to empower and give you hope as you support your child's mental health. Get started free Are you worried about your child? We offer education and therapeutic support to empower and give you hope as you support your child's mental health.

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AAKOMA builds the consciousness of youth of color and their caregivers on the recognition and importance of mental health, empowers youth and their families to seek help and manage mental health, and influences systems and services to receive and address the needs of youth of color and their families.

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Welcome

At the AAKOMA Project, we envision:

A world where EVERY child, teen, and young adult (inclusive of all points of diversity) feels the freedom to live unapologetically and authentically within an environment that allows them to rise and thrive.

SO, AAKOMA builds the consciousness of youth of color and their caregivers on the recognition and importance of mental health, empowers youth and their families to seek help and manage mental health, and influences systems and services to receive and address the needs of youth of color and their families.

Welcome to AAKOMA and thanks for joining our community!

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Mental Health Research and Care - AAKOMA Project

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We work with teenagers and their families to raise awareness, conduct patient-centered research, and encourage young people to begin conversations in their communities. At the AAKOMA Project, we believe that everyone - regardless of background, income, or identity - deserves optimal mental health.

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Emergency Department (ED/ER)

Brief Suicide Safety Assessment Guide (PDF | HTML)

Brief Suicide Safety Assessment Worksheet (PDF | HTML)

ASQ Suicide Risk Screening Tool (PDF | HTML)

Emergency Department Suicide Risk Clinical Pathway (PDF | HTML)

Mental Health Resources (PDF | HTML)

Script for Nursing Staff (PDF | HTML)

Parent/Guardian Flyer (PDF | HTML)

Links to Videos (PDF | HTML)

Information Sheet (PDF | HTML)

Inpatient Medical/Surgical Unit

Brief Suicide Safety Assessment Guide (PDF | HTML)

Brief Suicide Safety Assessment Worksheet (PDF | HTML)

ASQ Suicide Risk Screening Tool (PDF | HTML)

Inpatient Suicide Risk Clinical Pathway (PDF | HTML)

Mental Health Resources (PDF | HTML)

Script for Nursing Staff (PDF | HTML)

Parent/Guardian Flyer (PDF | HTML)

Links to Videos (PDF | HTML)

Information Sheet (PDF | HTML)

Outpatient Primary Care/Specialty Clinics

Brief Suicide Safety Assessment Guide (PDF | HTML)

Brief Suicide Safety Assessment Worksheet (PDF | HTML)

ASQ Suicide Risk Screening Tool (PDF | HTML)

Outpatient Suicide Risk Clinical Pathway (PDF | HTML)

Mental Health Resources (PDF | HTML)

Script for Nursing Staff (PDF | HTML)

Parent/Guardian Flyer (PDF | HTML)

Links to Videos (PDF | HTML)

Information Sheet (PDF | HTML)

The following materials remain the same across all medical settings. These materials can be used in other settings with youth (e.g. school nursing office, juvenile detention centers).

Translations of the ASQ Screening Tool

Suicide Prevention Resources

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Spanish/español: 1-888-628-9454

Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741-741

Suicide Prevention Resource Center

National Institute of Mental Health

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

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Brief Suicide Safety Assessment Guide (PDF | HTML) Brief Suicide Safety Assessment Worksheet (PDF | HTML) ASQ Suicide Risk Screening Tool (PDF | HTML) Emergency Department Suicide Risk Clinical Pathway (PDF | HTML) Mental Health Resources (PDF | HTML) Script for Nursing Staff (PDF | HTML) Parent/Guardian Flyer (PDF |

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The five action steps for communicating with someone who may be suicidal are supported by evidence in the field of suicide prevention.

Ask

How - Asking the question "Are you thinking about suicide?" communicates that you're open to speaking about suicide in a non-judgmental and supportive way. Asking in this direct, unbiased manner, can open the door for effective dialogue about their emotional pain and can allow everyone involved to see what next steps need to be taken. Other questions you can ask include, "How do you hurt?" and "How can I help?" Do not ever promise to keep their thoughts of suicide a secret.

The flip side of the "Ask" step is to "Listen." Make sure you take their answers seriously and not to ignore them, especially if they indicate they are experiencing thoughts of suicide. Listening to their reasons for being in such emotional pain, as well as listening for any potential reasons they want to continue to stay alive, are both incredibly important when they are telling you what's going on. Help them focus on their reasons for living and avoid trying to impose your reasons for them to stay alive.

Why - Studies show that if they are suicidal does not increase suicides or suicidal thoughts. In fact, studies suggest the opposite: findings suggest may in fact suicidal ideation.

Be There

How - This could mean being physically present for someone, speaking with them on the phone when you can, or any other way that shows support for the person at risk. An important aspect of this step is to make sure you follow through with the ways in which you say you'll be able to support the person - do not commit to anything you are not willing or able to accomplish. If you are unable to be physically present with someone with thoughts of suicide, talk with them to develop some ideas for others who might be able to help as well (again, only others who are willing, able, and appropriate to be there). Listening is again very important during this step - find out what and who they believe will be the most effective sources of help.

Why - Being there for someone with thoughts of suicide is life-saving. Increasing someone's to others and limiting their isolation (both in the short and long-term) has shown to be a protective factor against suicide. Thomas Joiner's Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicide highlights connectedness as one of its main components - specifically, a low sense of belonging. When someone experiences this state, paired with perceived burdonsomeness (arguably tied to "connectedness" through isolating behaviors and lack of a sense of purpose) and acquired capability (a lowered fear of death and habituated experiences of violence), their risk can become severely elevated.

In the Three-Step Theory (or more commonly known as the Ideation-to-Action Framework), David Klonsky and Alexis May also theorize that "connectedness" is a key protective factor, not only against suicide as a whole, but in terms of the escalation of thoughts of suicide to action. Their research has also shown connectedness acts as a buffer against hopelessness and psychological pain.

By "being there," we have a chance to alleviate or eliminate some of these significant factors.

Help Keep Them Safe

How - First of all, it's good for everyone to be on the same page. After the "Ask" step, and you've determined suicide is indeed being talked about, it's important to find out a few things to establish immediate safety. Have they already done anything to try to kill themselves before talking with you? Does the person experiencing thoughts of suicide know how they would kill themselves? Do they have a specific, detailed plan? What's the timing for their plan? What sort of access do they have to their planned method?

Why - Knowing the answers to each of these questions can tell us a lot about the imminence and severity of danger the person is in. For instance, the more steps and pieces of a plan that are in place, the higher their severity of risk and their capability to enact their plan might be. Or if they have immediate access to a firearm and are very serious about attempting suicide, then extra steps (like calling for emergency help or driving them to an emergency department) might be necessary. The Lifeline can always act as a resource during these moments as well if you aren't entirely sure what to do next.

The notes that reducing a suicidal person's access to highly lethal means (or chosen method for a suicide attempt) is an important part of suicide prevention. A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline. Research also shows that "method substitution" or choosing an alternate method when the original method is restricted, frequently does not happen. The myth "If someone really wants to kill themselves, they'll find a way to do it" often does not hold true if appropriate safety measures are put into place. The Help Keep Them Safe step is really about showing support for someone during the times when they have thoughts of suicide by putting time and distance between the person and their chosen method, especially methods that have shown higher lethality (like firearms and medications).

Help Them Connect

How - Helping someone with thoughts of suicide connect with ongoing supports (like the 988 Lifeline) can help them establish a safety net for those moments they find themselves in a crisis. Additional components of a safety net might be connecting them with supports and resources in their communities. Explore some of these possible supports with them - are they currently seeing a mental health professional? Have they in the past? Is this an option for them currently? Are there other mental health resources in the community that can effectively help?

One way to start helping them find ways to connect is to work with them to develop a safety plan. This can include ways for them identify if they start to experience significant, severe thoughts of suicide along with what to do in those crisis moments. A safety plan can also include a list of individuals to contact when a crisis occurs.

Why - found that individuals that called the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline were significantly more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful by the end of calls handled by Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training-trained counselors. These improvements were linked to ASIST-related counselor interventions, including listening without judgment, exploring reasons for living and creating a network of support.

Follow Up

How - After your initial contact with a person experiencing thoughts of suicide, and after you've connected them with the immediate support systems they need, make sure to follow-up with them to see how they're doing. Leave a message, send a text, or give them a call. The follow-up step is a great time to check in with them to see if there is more you are capable of helping with or if there are things you've said you would do and haven't yet had the chance to get done for the person.

Why - This type of contact can continue to increase their feelings of connectedness and share your ongoing support. There is evidence that even a simple form of reaching out, , can potentially reduce their risk for suicide.

Studies have shown a reduction in the number of deaths by suicide when with high risk populations after they were discharge from acute care services. Studies have also shown that brief, low cost intervention and may be an important part of suicide prevention. Please visit our page for more.
Share the #BeThe1To steps in your community. Find out how. For more information, press/media inquiries, or partnership opportunities, please contact Hannah Collins at hcollins@vibrant.org.

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How The 5 Steps Can Help Someone Who is Suicidal - #BeThe1To

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En Español The five action steps for communicating with someone who may be suicidal are supported by evidence in the field of suicide prevention. Ask How - Asking the question "Are you thinking about suicide?" communicates that you're open to speaking about suicide in a non-judgmental and supportive way.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The five action steps for communicating with someone who may be suicidal are supported by evidence in the field of suicide prevention.

Ask

How - Asking the question "Are you thinking about suicide?" communicates that you're open to speaking about suicide in a non-judgmental and supportive way. Asking in this direct, unbiased manner, can open the door for effective dialogue about their emotional pain and can allow everyone involved to see what next steps need to be taken. Other questions you can ask include, "How do you hurt?" and "How can I help?" Do not ever promise to keep their thoughts of suicide a secret.

The flip side of the "Ask" step is to "Listen." Make sure you take their answers seriously and not to ignore them, especially if they indicate they are experiencing thoughts of suicide. Listening to their reasons for being in such emotional pain, as well as listening for any potential reasons they want to continue to stay alive, are both incredibly important when they are telling you what's going on. Help them focus on their reasons for living and avoid trying to impose your reasons for them to stay alive.

Why - Studies show that if they are suicidal does not increase suicides or suicidal thoughts. In fact, studies suggest the opposite: findings suggest may in fact suicidal ideation.

Be There

How - This could mean being physically present for someone, speaking with them on the phone when you can, or any other way that shows support for the person at risk. An important aspect of this step is to make sure you follow through with the ways in which you say you'll be able to support the person - do not commit to anything you are not willing or able to accomplish. If you are unable to be physically present with someone with thoughts of suicide, talk with them to develop some ideas for others who might be able to help as well (again, only others who are willing, able, and appropriate to be there). Listening is again very important during this step - find out what and who they believe will be the most effective sources of help.

Why - Being there for someone with thoughts of suicide is life-saving. Increasing someone's to others and limiting their isolation (both in the short and long-term) has shown to be a protective factor against suicide. Thomas Joiner's Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicide highlights connectedness as one of its main components - specifically, a low sense of belonging. When someone experiences this state, paired with perceived burdonsomeness (arguably tied to "connectedness" through isolating behaviors and lack of a sense of purpose) and acquired capability (a lowered fear of death and habituated experiences of violence), their risk can become severely elevated.

In the Three-Step Theory (or more commonly known as the Ideation-to-Action Framework), David Klonsky and Alexis May also theorize that "connectedness" is a key protective factor, not only against suicide as a whole, but in terms of the escalation of thoughts of suicide to action. Their research has also shown connectedness acts as a buffer against hopelessness and psychological pain.

By "being there," we have a chance to alleviate or eliminate some of these significant factors.

Help Keep Them Safe

How - First of all, it's good for everyone to be on the same page. After the "Ask" step, and you've determined suicide is indeed being talked about, it's important to find out a few things to establish immediate safety. Have they already done anything to try to kill themselves before talking with you? Does the person experiencing thoughts of suicide know how they would kill themselves? Do they have a specific, detailed plan? What's the timing for their plan? What sort of access do they have to their planned method?

Why - Knowing the answers to each of these questions can tell us a lot about the imminence and severity of danger the person is in. For instance, the more steps and pieces of a plan that are in place, the higher their severity of risk and their capability to enact their plan might be. Or if they have immediate access to a firearm and are very serious about attempting suicide, then extra steps (like calling for emergency help or driving them to an emergency department) might be necessary. The Lifeline can always act as a resource during these moments as well if you aren't entirely sure what to do next.

The notes that reducing a suicidal person's access to highly lethal means (or chosen method for a suicide attempt) is an important part of suicide prevention. A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline. Research also shows that "method substitution" or choosing an alternate method when the original method is restricted, frequently does not happen. The myth "If someone really wants to kill themselves, they'll find a way to do it" often does not hold true if appropriate safety measures are put into place. The Help Keep Them Safe step is really about showing support for someone during the times when they have thoughts of suicide by putting time and distance between the person and their chosen method, especially methods that have shown higher lethality (like firearms and medications).

Help Them Connect

How - Helping someone with thoughts of suicide connect with ongoing supports (like the 988 Lifeline) can help them establish a safety net for those moments they find themselves in a crisis. Additional components of a safety net might be connecting them with supports and resources in their communities. Explore some of these possible supports with them - are they currently seeing a mental health professional? Have they in the past? Is this an option for them currently? Are there other mental health resources in the community that can effectively help?

One way to start helping them find ways to connect is to work with them to develop a safety plan. This can include ways for them identify if they start to experience significant, severe thoughts of suicide along with what to do in those crisis moments. A safety plan can also include a list of individuals to contact when a crisis occurs.

Why - found that individuals that called the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline were significantly more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful by the end of calls handled by Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training-trained counselors. These improvements were linked to ASIST-related counselor interventions, including listening without judgment, exploring reasons for living and creating a network of support.

Follow Up

How - After your initial contact with a person experiencing thoughts of suicide, and after you've connected them with the immediate support systems they need, make sure to follow-up with them to see how they're doing. Leave a message, send a text, or give them a call. The follow-up step is a great time to check in with them to see if there is more you are capable of helping with or if there are things you've said you would do and haven't yet had the chance to get done for the person.

Why - This type of contact can continue to increase their feelings of connectedness and share your ongoing support. There is evidence that even a simple form of reaching out, , can potentially reduce their risk for suicide.

Studies have shown a reduction in the number of deaths by suicide when with high risk populations after they were discharge from acute care services. Studies have also shown that brief, low cost intervention and may be an important part of suicide prevention. Please visit our page for more.
Share the #BeThe1To steps in your community. Find out how. For more information, press/media inquiries, or partnership opportunities, please contact Hannah Collins at hcollins@vibrant.org.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How The 5 Steps Can Help Someone Who is Suicidal - #BeThe1To

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
En Español The five action steps for communicating with someone who may be suicidal are supported by evidence in the field of suicide prevention. Ask How - Asking the question "Are you thinking about suicide?" communicates that you're open to speaking about suicide in a non-judgmental and supportive way.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The five action steps for communicating with someone who may be suicidal are supported by evidence in the field of suicide prevention.

Ask

How - Asking the question "Are you thinking about suicide?" communicates that you're open to speaking about suicide in a non-judgmental and supportive way. Asking in this direct, unbiased manner, can open the door for effective dialogue about their emotional pain and can allow everyone involved to see what next steps need to be taken. Other questions you can ask include, "How do you hurt?" and "How can I help?" Do not ever promise to keep their thoughts of suicide a secret.

The flip side of the "Ask" step is to "Listen." Make sure you take their answers seriously and not to ignore them, especially if they indicate they are experiencing thoughts of suicide. Listening to their reasons for being in such emotional pain, as well as listening for any potential reasons they want to continue to stay alive, are both incredibly important when they are telling you what's going on. Help them focus on their reasons for living and avoid trying to impose your reasons for them to stay alive.

Why - Studies show that if they are suicidal does not increase suicides or suicidal thoughts. In fact, studies suggest the opposite: findings suggest may in fact suicidal ideation.

Be There

How - This could mean being physically present for someone, speaking with them on the phone when you can, or any other way that shows support for the person at risk. An important aspect of this step is to make sure you follow through with the ways in which you say you'll be able to support the person - do not commit to anything you are not willing or able to accomplish. If you are unable to be physically present with someone with thoughts of suicide, talk with them to develop some ideas for others who might be able to help as well (again, only others who are willing, able, and appropriate to be there). Listening is again very important during this step - find out what and who they believe will be the most effective sources of help.

Why - Being there for someone with thoughts of suicide is life-saving. Increasing someone's to others and limiting their isolation (both in the short and long-term) has shown to be a protective factor against suicide. Thomas Joiner's Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicide highlights connectedness as one of its main components - specifically, a low sense of belonging. When someone experiences this state, paired with perceived burdonsomeness (arguably tied to "connectedness" through isolating behaviors and lack of a sense of purpose) and acquired capability (a lowered fear of death and habituated experiences of violence), their risk can become severely elevated.

In the Three-Step Theory (or more commonly known as the Ideation-to-Action Framework), David Klonsky and Alexis May also theorize that "connectedness" is a key protective factor, not only against suicide as a whole, but in terms of the escalation of thoughts of suicide to action. Their research has also shown connectedness acts as a buffer against hopelessness and psychological pain.

By "being there," we have a chance to alleviate or eliminate some of these significant factors.

Help Keep Them Safe

How - First of all, it's good for everyone to be on the same page. After the "Ask" step, and you've determined suicide is indeed being talked about, it's important to find out a few things to establish immediate safety. Have they already done anything to try to kill themselves before talking with you? Does the person experiencing thoughts of suicide know how they would kill themselves? Do they have a specific, detailed plan? What's the timing for their plan? What sort of access do they have to their planned method?

Why - Knowing the answers to each of these questions can tell us a lot about the imminence and severity of danger the person is in. For instance, the more steps and pieces of a plan that are in place, the higher their severity of risk and their capability to enact their plan might be. Or if they have immediate access to a firearm and are very serious about attempting suicide, then extra steps (like calling for emergency help or driving them to an emergency department) might be necessary. The Lifeline can always act as a resource during these moments as well if you aren't entirely sure what to do next.

The notes that reducing a suicidal person's access to highly lethal means (or chosen method for a suicide attempt) is an important part of suicide prevention. A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline. Research also shows that "method substitution" or choosing an alternate method when the original method is restricted, frequently does not happen. The myth "If someone really wants to kill themselves, they'll find a way to do it" often does not hold true if appropriate safety measures are put into place. The Help Keep Them Safe step is really about showing support for someone during the times when they have thoughts of suicide by putting time and distance between the person and their chosen method, especially methods that have shown higher lethality (like firearms and medications).

Help Them Connect

How - Helping someone with thoughts of suicide connect with ongoing supports (like the 988 Lifeline) can help them establish a safety net for those moments they find themselves in a crisis. Additional components of a safety net might be connecting them with supports and resources in their communities. Explore some of these possible supports with them - are they currently seeing a mental health professional? Have they in the past? Is this an option for them currently? Are there other mental health resources in the community that can effectively help?

One way to start helping them find ways to connect is to work with them to develop a safety plan. This can include ways for them identify if they start to experience significant, severe thoughts of suicide along with what to do in those crisis moments. A safety plan can also include a list of individuals to contact when a crisis occurs.

Why - found that individuals that called the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline were significantly more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful by the end of calls handled by Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training-trained counselors. These improvements were linked to ASIST-related counselor interventions, including listening without judgment, exploring reasons for living and creating a network of support.

Follow Up

How - After your initial contact with a person experiencing thoughts of suicide, and after you've connected them with the immediate support systems they need, make sure to follow-up with them to see how they're doing. Leave a message, send a text, or give them a call. The follow-up step is a great time to check in with them to see if there is more you are capable of helping with or if there are things you've said you would do and haven't yet had the chance to get done for the person.

Why - This type of contact can continue to increase their feelings of connectedness and share your ongoing support. There is evidence that even a simple form of reaching out, , can potentially reduce their risk for suicide.

Studies have shown a reduction in the number of deaths by suicide when with high risk populations after they were discharge from acute care services. Studies have also shown that brief, low cost intervention and may be an important part of suicide prevention. Please visit our page for more.
Share the #BeThe1To steps in your community. Find out how. For more information, press/media inquiries, or partnership opportunities, please contact Hannah Collins at hcollins@vibrant.org.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How The 5 Steps Can Help Someone Who is Suicidal - #BeThe1To

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
En Español The five action steps for communicating with someone who may be suicidal are supported by evidence in the field of suicide prevention. Ask How - Asking the question "Are you thinking about suicide?" communicates that you're open to speaking about suicide in a non-judgmental and supportive way.

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"teen mental health" "suicide prevention" "teen suicide prevention" lgbtq+ depression ptsd addiction alcholism cyberbullying "animated series"

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My Life is Worth Living is the first animated series about teen mental health produced by Cook Center for Human Connection and Wonder Media. The series tells stories of characters who face some of the most difficult issues that young people deal with today.

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Youth Mental Health Project Parent Support

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Youth Mental Health Project Parent Support

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The Youth Mental Health Project is a group of individuals who believe that:

Mental health lies on a continuum and includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.

A healthy mind is as important to a child's development as a healthy body.

In order to address the devastating consequences of the current mental health crisis, early intervention and prevention must become the norm.

With an emphasis on the mental health of children, teens, and young adults, we believe that educating, supporting, and empowering families and communities to understand and care for the mental health of young people is crucial to the health of a compassionate society.

Connect with us to learn more about the Youth Mental Health Project.

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The Youth Mental Health Project is a group of individuals who believe that: Mental health lies on a continuum and includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. A healthy mind is as important to a child's development as a healthy body.

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Neolth: Mental Health Support for Students

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Neolth: Mental Health Support for Students

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Neolth | Mental Health Support for Students

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Neolth is your digital platform for personalized stress management. Take the guesswork out of wellness. Neolth uses precision neuroscience to create a stress management plan that's right for you.

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You might find it difficult to talk with the person you are worried about or seek help around the situation as suicide is often considered a taboo topic. We're here to help you navigate through these challenges.

You likely identify as a friend or family member as opposed to a caregiver, and underrate the toll of offering emotional support. We help you understand your suicide caregiver role and prioritize your wellness.

Other resources focus on how to help the person with suicidal thoughts without considering the challenges caregivers face. Our model provides education around suicide and self-care to address your unique needs.

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You might find it difficult to talk with the person you are worried about or seek help around the situation as suicide is often considered a taboo topic. We're here to help you navigate through these challenges. You likely identify as a friend or family member as opposed to a caregiver, and underrate the toll of offering emotional support.

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The Pledge

I, , agree to stay alive. Even when the world seems to stop spinning, I promise I will keep going. I promise to keep fighting.

I promise to reach out when I need support.

I promise to stay here.

I am here to stay.

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An interactive resource to support your mental health, brought to you by Find Your Anchor and Born This Way Foundation.

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Welcome | TherapyShow.com | United States

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Therapy Show podcast dedicated to helping consumers navigate mental health treatment and achieve better outcomes. It can be challenging for people to navigate the complicated mental health system, so TherapyShow.com offers expert information about evidenced-based therapy.

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Support for teens & children after a suicide death

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Support for teens & children after a suicide death

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Alliance of Hope for Suicide Loss Survivors

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Supporting Children and Teens after a Suicide Death - Alliance of Hope for Suicide Loss Survivors

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The Alliance of Hope for Suicide Loss Survivors, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, provides healing support for people who have lost loved ones to suicide.

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Support for teens and children after a Suicide Death

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Support for teens and children after a Suicide Death