September is National Suicide Prevention Month

13:25 PM - September 27, 2022

September is National Suicide Prevention Month – a time to openly acknowledge the subject and learn about resources. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 45,979 people died by suicide in the United States in 2020. In El Dorado County, 35 residents took their own lives in 2020, according to El Dorado County Health and Human Services.

When it comes to one of our most vulnerable populations, our youth, it is imperative to take measures to prevent suicide. In California, 1 in 4 high school students seriously consider suicide, according to LivingWorks. Suicide can be prevented if people know the warning signs and create a hopeful and supportive environment.

Through AB 1808, the California Education Code was updated to provide funding to ensure awareness and training of school staff so that they are prepared to identify, support, and refer middle and high school students who may be experiencing thoughts of suicide. The California Department of Education (CDE) contracted with LivingWorks to train staff and personnel who work with students to properly engage with those suffering with suicidal thoughts and connect them with resources. Through this training, they gain the necessary skills to work with students, friends, family members, and co-workers who are struggling with suicidal thoughts and begin a conversation with them to show they are taking the issue seriously and connect them with a counselor, mental health professional, or crisis line.

In addition to training staff, 7^th through 12^th grade students have the option of receiving training. This evidence-based training designed for those ages 13 and up improves student readiness and understanding when talking about suicide prevention.

As more and more people are trained, a safety network develops for school communities making it more likely that someone’s distress will be identified, and action will be taken in getting them help. Additionally, the topic of suicide becomes less taboo and something that everyone can feel more comfortable talking about openly.

Special thanks to Dr. Melissa Kistler, Director, Program & District Support for Curriculum, Instruction & Accountability

Resources:

-Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call, text, or chat 988

-National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) (English); 1-888-628-9454 (Español)

-El Dorado County Behavioral Health Division 24-Hour Crisis Phone Line: 1-530-622-3345 (West Slope); 1-530-544-2219 (South Lake Tahoe)

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