1. SUICIDE A Proactive Approach

2. The Warning Signs: A. Statements such as…. “ I want to die ” (Direct) “ Soon this pain will be over ” (Indirect) B. Depression C. Mood Swings D. Withdrawn C. Previous Attempts

3. Situational Influences A.Death of someone close to them B.Breakup of a relationship C.Other serious loss D.Problems with school, job, finances, the law E.Abuse of drugs or alcohol

4. Suicide Threat Is A CRY FOR HELP

5. PROPER RESPONSE Stay Calm Show interest and support Listen without judging Emphasize desirable alternatives - there is another way Use constructive questions Emphasize temporary nature of problems

6. DON’T Ask why – angers the person, makes them become defensive Act shocked – puts distance between you and person Give advice by forcing decisions on the person or tell the person to behave differently. Be sworn to secrecy-seek support and help immediately. Offer hope that alternatives are available Engage in a philosophical debate on the moral aspect of suicide – you may lose the debate and the suicidal person.

7. Know The Drill 1.Contact the parent. 2.Get the parent to sign the parent suicide outcry form. 3.Give the parent a list of resources with phone numbers. 4.Release the student to the parent. 5.Counselor follows up with student and parent as needed. 6.Fax report form to Ron Moss at 432-689-5107 (this is a secure fax) **PLEASE NOTE IF THE STUDENT HAS MADE AN ATTEMPT TO TAKE THEIR LIFE CONTACT THE MENTAL HEALTH OFFICER** IF YOU HAVE AN OUTCRY AND CANNOT CONTACT THE PARENT OR EMERGENCY CONTACT CALL MIDLAND ISD POLICE AND KEEP THE STUDENT THERE UNTIL AN OFFICER ARRIVES TO ASSIST YOU.

8. Follow-Up A. GO to hospital to be with student B.Follow up with parents and offer additional support a. Refer to outside agencies to address additional needs.

9. Resources for you Checklist to assess severity level No suicide contract Parent contact document

10. Student Development Contact Numbers: Ron Moss 432-689-1031 Priscilla De La Rosa 432-689-1053 MHMR 432-579-3300 Campus Security 432-689-1077

11. SUICIDE Hot Line 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) Midland: 432 570-3300 Odessa: 432 333-3265