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SUICIDE AWARENESS

Topic: What is Suicide Awareness Month?

September is suicide awareness or prevention month where the world comes together to give support and help to anyone who is struggling or dealing with suicide. Suicide is a highly stigmatized topic, and we use this month to spread hope, and vital information to people affected by suicide and to ensure that individuals, friends, and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help. Given that suicide stands as the 10th leading cause of death among adults in the US and the second leading cause of death among people aged 10-24, it is important to stay well-informed and equipped to handle situations of distress. Through the campaign, people can learn the warning signs of suicide and how to support those who may be at risk. There are many different ways that you can get involved in suicide prevention month including educating yourself on the topic, utilizing social media to spread awareness, donating to an organization that supports this cause, volunteering at a crisis hotline and so much more! 

Topic: Warning Signs

People with suicidal intentions display warning signs that may be obvious or subtle. Oftentimes, there are changes in the way they talk, behave, or feel. They might not always be straightforward to you, so just keep an eye out for the people that you care about. Always be on the lookout for these signs as you never know what they are going through and help prevent the loss of another innocent life.

Topic: Why does this month matter?

Suicide is a major public health concern and a leading cause of death in the U.S.; hence, National Suicide Prevention Month gives us an opportunity to shine a special, encouraging light on this topic that affects us all; send a clear, hopeful message that help is available; and suicide can be prevented. The importance of providing support and compassion to those dealing with mental health conditions is critical because if left alone, they may become vulnerable to suicidal thoughts and self-harm. Despite the growing knowledge on suicide prevention, mental health issues are still highly stigmatized. Therefore, September’s Suicide Prevention Month serves as an initiative to educate and help prevent mental health conditions from being ignored while highlighting treatment options and spreading hope. That being said, the impact of this month extends beyond its 30-day duration. It plants seeds of awareness and understanding that continue to grow long after September ends. It encourages ongoing conversations about mental health, ensuring that the dialogue does not fade away but remains a constant presence in our lives. In essence, Suicide Prevention Month is a testament to our capacity for compassion and change. It showcases the strength of human empathy and the potential to save lives through collective action. By working together to raise awareness, reduce stigma, provide resources, and offer unwavering support, we create a world where individuals in crisis find hope, healing, and a lifeline to hold onto.

Topic: Suicide Prevention and Coping Mechanisms

Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988

Suicide Prevention

  • Learn the warning signs of someone who may attempt suicide in the future. 

  • Promote a positive and uplifting environment with your peers. You never know what other people may be feeling or going through.

  • Identify people at risk of suicide and assist them in any way you can.

Coping Mechanisms

  • Journaling: Flesh out your feelings, thoughts, and your day in a journal or on a piece of paper. Generally, aim to include 3 things that you accomplished that day! Not only can it help with easing your mind, but it might also help with sleep. 

  • Treat yourself: Do things that you enjoy and can help take your mind off negative thoughts. This can give you a sense of calamity and comfort when going through difficult times. (i.e. listening to music, reading a book, playing video games)

  • Support Groups: There are many resources out there that can give exposure to paths other than suicide. In these support groups, you can also connect and relate with others who are struggling through similar experiences. 

Topic: How can we advocate?

  • Offer support to your friends and peers ;  be there for them and share these resources 

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  • Educate yourself about the warning signs and never be shy to reach out if you feel you need help

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  • Repost helpful infographics on your story and share reliable information

Topic: Resources at Tech

If you ever feel like you need someone to confide in, you can turn to social workers. Social workers are staff present at Tech that students can seek out for assistance and guidance. They work hard to connect with students as well as to ensure the well-being of the student’s emotional and social health. There are 4 social workers at Tech, one for each grade.

9th Grade - Mr. Jerry

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MJERRY2@SCHOOLS.NYC.GOV

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Room: 1W6A

10th Grade - Ms. Barlow

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ABARLOW3@SCHOOLS.NYC.GOV

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Room: 1C3

11th Grade - Ms. Martini

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CMARTINI@SCHOOLS.NYC.GOV

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Room: 6S7

12th Grade - Ms. Ford

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TFORD@SCHOOLS.NYC.GOV

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Room: 2W5

Topic: Important Contacts/Lifelines/Immediate Support Numbers

In case you or someone you're familiar with is going through a mental health crisis, don't hesitate to dial or text 988 right away. If speaking on the phone feels uncomfortable, you have the option to converse with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline through the website 988lifeline.org.

Alternatively, you can text the letters "NAMI" to 741-741 to link up with a skilled crisis counselor through the Crisis Text Line at no cost.

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