Suicide Prevention Month

ACT: Acknowledge, Care, and Tell

Hello Yosemite Bears, Mrs. Marr your School Social Worker here to tell you a little bit about Suicide Prevention Month.

Did you know that every September is National Suicide Prevention Month?

This year has been challenging for us all and for some those challenges can become overwhelming. It is important to know what to do, or who to turn to if you or a friend ever need help.

Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to let your family, teachers, or other trusted adults know what you need when they ask; they want to help. If you are worried about a friend, you need to tell a trusted adult. Do not promise to keep a secret. Even if you think your friend might be mad at you for telling, it is better to have a mad friend then one who is in danger. The staff at YMS are caring adults who can connect you with the help that you need.

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Remember that this feeling can be overcome

Family conflict, relationships, grades, identity, and the loss of important people can seem impossible to deal with. But with support from others, you can. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Text "HOME" to 741741 for help 24/7.

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ASK FOR HELP

Don’t be afraid to let your friends, family, or teachers know what you need when they ask; they want to help. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline any time — calls are confidential. Call 1-800-273-8225 (24/7)

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The Trevor Project

The Trevor Project supports LGBTQ+ youth. Trained counselors are here to support you 24/7. If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgment-free place to talk, call the TrevorLifeline now at 1-866-488-7386. You deserve immediate help.

If you are concerned about yourself or a friend, ACT

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Acknowledge Warning Signs

Acknowledge that you are seeing signs of suicide in yourself or a friends. Signs that your friend might need help include major changes in behavior, sounding really down or hopeless, withdrawing from friends or family.

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Care- For Yourself and Others

Care- Take care of yourself- exercise, eat right, start a healthy hobby like journaling, keep a routine and get enough sleep. Care- Ways to show your friend that you care: Stay in touch, even if virtually. Remind them to practice self-care.

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Tell a Trusted Adult

Even though this year’s classes are held virtually, it’s important to find a trusted adult to talk to. To help, make a list of trusted adults below - remembering to think about extended family members, friends’ parents, teachers you may still be able to contact, or more.

If you are currently experiencing hopelessness or thoughts of suicide; HELP IS WAITING 24/7

This newsletter is not intended to be a Crisis Hotline or a substitute for mental health services. If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency/crisis, please call 911. If you have thoughts of suicide call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255 or the Crisis Text Line by texting “HOME" to 741741. Assistance is available via text 24/7. Additional information can be found at crisistextline.org .

Tell a Trusted Adult

If you are in need of support, tell a trusted adult. You can talk to your family, teachers, pediatrician, or reach out to support staff at YMS. You can call the front office, email a staff, or click on the link below to schedule an appointment.