According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 20% of high school students report serious thoughts about suicide and 9% report a suicide attempt. While these numbers are frightening, there is hope that if we as a community can identify and support young people who are experiencing mental health symptoms, we can prevent tragedy before it occurs.
BISD is focused on developing students’ social and emotional skills to lead positive and healthy lives with strong connections, a feeling of belonging, and a sense of hope throughout their time with us. Counselors in all BISD schools are trained to help support students who are expressing suicidal thoughts. Additionally, as of July 2022, there is now a national line to contact for mental health, substance use and suicide crises.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 immediately. In its first year, 988 received almost five million contacts (calls, texts and chats).
RESOURCES
If you are uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can chat with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org.
You can also text NAMI to 741-741 to be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor on the Crisis Text Line.
Know the Warning Signs and Risk Factors of Suicide
Being Prepared for a Crisis
What You Need to Know About Youth Suicide
Need more information, referrals or support? Contact the NAMI HelpLine. |
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