by Anna Witters
With teen suicide rates being higher than ever, NPUSC has decided to take extra precautions to keep students safe.
According to The Jason Foundation, teen suicide statistics are extremely high, with suicide as the second leading cause of death for ages 10-24. More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease combined.
Each day in our nation, there are an average of over 3,041 attempts by young people grades 9-12. Four out of five people give clear signs before they make an attempt. Females attempt suicide three times as often as males. Lesbian, gay, and bisexual kids are three times more likely than straight kids to attempt suicide at some point in their lives, The Suicide Prevention Resource Center states.
According to Asst. Principal Timothy Scott, more steps have been added to existing paperwork. If a staff member thinks a student is threatening suicide, they can fill out paperwork to get them the help they need. Once the teachers fill out paperwork, it goes up to higher administration and they decide what the best decision is, whether it be the counselors, their parents, or something more serious. New Prairie is making sure students get the help they need.
Scott felt this is a huge step in the right direction to prevent suicide.
“Social, emotional teaching is a big thing now where we’re not just trying to teach you content, but trying to make sure that you're emotionally stable and well adjusted that way,” Scott explained. These extra precautions can possibly save someone’s life.
When it comes to students preventing suicide, Scott’s best tip is to let somebody know. Even though it might seem like you can betray a friend by telling a higher up, it is the best thing you can do for them. According to Lifeline Australia,
“If you think someone might be suicidal, ask them directly "Are you thinking about suicide?" Don’t be afraid to do this, it shows a high level of care and will actually decrease their risk because it shows someone is willing to talk about it. If they say they are suicidal, listen and stay with them. Make sure they get the help they need, and make sure they feel valued and comforted.”
If you or a friend are considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255, available 24 hours a day.