Suicide awareness and prevention in schools requires collaborative efforts from educators, parents, mental health professionals, and community organizations.
At Navigate360, we believe in empowering schools to create a safe and supportive environment for every student. In this Q&A, we present insights from renowned expert Dr. Scott Poland on various aspects of suicide prevention, including the role of bullying prevention, the importance of understanding trauma, and strategies for effective follow-up and parental involvement. By addressing these critical questions, we aim to provide valuable guidance to school staff and administrators in their ongoing efforts to safeguard student well-being.
What is the best way to prevent bullying at school before it gets out of hand?
Many students report experiencing bullying with some frequency (about 15%). Preventing bullying in schools requires more than just school-based solutions; it involves a partnership between schools, parents, and community organizations. It is crucial that victims of bullying never feel they deserve to be mistreated. They need reassurance that steps are being taken to stop the bullying, while bullies need to understand that their actions are being monitored, and escalating consequences will follow continued harassment. A comprehensive, schoolwide commitment is necessary to eliminate bullying effectively.
What is the prevalence of adopted children with trauma or a high ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) score in suicide attempts?
This question requires extensive research, and there may not be a definitive answer. However, it is well-documented in the literature that young people with three or more adverse childhood experiences are significantly affected and require mental health support. While there may not be specific research linking the exact number of adverse experiences to suicidal thoughts or actions, recognizing and addressing these experiences is vital for prevention.
How can an individual become certified in suicide prevention?
The American Association of Suicidology offers a school suicide prevention credential. Although I helped develop the training requirements many years ago, I am not familiar with the most recent updates. Additionally, individual schools in Florida can become suicide prevention certified, with requirements available on the Florida Department of Education website.
What about parental notification in cases of suicide risk?
Parental notification should occur whenever there is any level of suicide risk for a student. This includes instances where an initial screening or suicide assessment is conducted, regardless of the student’s responses. It is important to note that suicidal students often deny their feelings to avoid scrutiny. The only exception to parental notification is if there is suspicion of child abuse, in which case protective services must be contacted immediately.
Ideally, parental notification should be a warm hand-off, done in person whenever possible. If parents cannot come to the school, alternatives like using a mobile crisis team or law enforcement may be considered. Phone notification alone is discouraged, and every step taken for the student’s safety should be thoroughly documented, with a written safety plan developed jointly with the student. School administrators should be informed and involved in the process.
How long should follow-up continue in a suicide prevention case?
The duration and frequency of follow-up for students at risk of suicide should be determined based on several factors. At a minimum, I recommend weekly follow-ups for at least six weeks, with documentation in the Navigate360 Behavioral Case Manager. Additional follow-up may be necessary if new circumstances arise, such as the suicide of a peer, which can lower inhibitions and increase the risk among other students. Adolescents are highly susceptible to suicide contagion.
Additional Thoughts:
Navigate360 Behavioral Case Manager is a valuable tool in determining the appropriate duration and frequency of follow-ups for students known to be at risk of suicide. Here are some ways it can assist:
- Guidance on Follow-Up Frequency: Behavioral Case Manager provides structured follow-up plans, suggesting weekly check-ins for at least six weeks. This schedule allows for consistent monitoring and support during a critical period. All check-ins should be documented within the system.
- Crisis Response Support: In a crisis, such as a peer’s suicide, immediate and additional follow-up should be conducted and documented in Behavioral Case Manager.
- Ongoing Evaluation: Behavioral Case Manager supports continuous evaluation and documentation of the student’s needs, allowing for adjustments based on any changes in behavior or circumstances.
Navigate360 Behavioral Case Manager ensures that follow-up practices are effective and responsive to the needs of students at risk of suicide.
Conclusion
Suicide prevention in schools requires a comprehensive approach that includes early identification of risk factors, consistent follow-up, and collaboration among educators, parents, and mental health professionals. This expert guidance highlights the importance of schoolwide commitment, effective communication with parents, and the use of tools like Navigate360 Behavioral Case Manager to ensure timely and appropriate responses to students in crisis. By implementing these strategies, schools can create safer, more supportive environments that prioritize the well-being and mental health of every student.
