SUICIDE ANNIVERSARY DATES: UNDERSTANDING STUDENT REACTIONS
Why Do Teens React to Anniversary Dates? Because death is more difficult in adolescence than at any other point in the life cycle Challenges normal developmental tasks Raises ultimate questions about the “meaning of life”
How Do Teens Cope? Deny the reality of death “It won’t happen to me or my friends” Push the envelope with risky activities Create “parallel’ universe for deceased
What Kids Are Most At-Risk for Anniversary Reactions? Close friends Teammates Classmates Students committed to keeping memory of deceased alive Students who self-report being affected by anniversary
How to Approach These Students Identify them in advance of anniversary date Pay closer attention to school performance Classroom behavior Personal appearance Absences, tardiness Any changes from previous level of functioning
How to Approach These Students ASK! about their reactions “I know you were friends with Tim, I was wondering how you’re doing with the year anniversary of his death” You will not be the first person to call their attention to this date
How to Approach These Students LISTEN to their responses Validate their feelings. “I can understand that this time brings up all those feelings from last year. I’m really sorry you lost someone who meant so much to you”… or “I’m glad to hear you’re doing okay”
How to Approach These Students Remind students about in-school resources “If you need to talk, just let me know. I’m willing to listen or I can put you in touch with someone here at school who’s in a great position to give you some extra support”
If You’re Worried About A Student…. Consult with your school resource staff: Mr. Ms. ______ (contact info) List other members of the crisis team identified as resources for this purpose
What Else Can You Do? Review your class material for curriculum reminders Identify content dealing with death, trauma Consider substituting resiliency-based assignments