September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the unsettling realities that face the nation’s youth, particularly those with disabilities.
Recent sobering statistics from the National Alliance on Mental Illness reveal that suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people aged 10–14. For youth ages 15–24, it stands as the third leading cause. These are more than just numbers—these are the youth walking the halls in our schools.
The good news is that your role as a special education professional grants you a unique vantage point and opportunity to identify and support students at risk of suicide. Recognizing exactly which students is the important first step, and guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (2022) points to the risk categories you should heed:
- Individual factors. A history of attempts, mental health condition, social isolation, or substance abuse.
- Relational factors. Exposure to bullying, adverse childhood experiences, conflict with peers, and a family history of suicide.
Stay alert for the typical warning signs, which might include:
- expressions about a lack of self-worth or a desire for self-harm;
- mood changes, accompanied by agitated or depressive states; and
- behavioral changes such as social withdrawal, disrupted sleep patterns, irritability, or giving away valued possessions.
The topic of suicide is complex and requires a comprehensive approach. We encourage you to acquaint yourself with the diverse set of resources available on the subject.
Most importantly, remember that your proactive communication might just be the pivotal step in the early intervention and support for the student displaying suicidal tendencies.
Resources:
- The National Child Traumatic Stress Network—Helpful resources for parents and caregivers, children and teens, mental health providers, educators and school staff, and policymakers.
- The Jason Foundation—Resources about warning signs, risk factors, and more.
- A Promise for Tomorrow Student Curriculum—Grade 7–12 curriculum, available online or in hard copy.
- The Myths and Facts of Suicide—Helpful resources from the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health (DPBH) Office of Suicide Prevention.
Bonus Tip
Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation is partnering with PCG-Indiana, Inc. to host online listening sessions. They want to hear from Pre-ETS providers, advocates, students, families, and teachers to learn what's working well and what needs to improve for Pre-ETS and the transition system.
Join one of these online chats to share your thoughts on how to make job training better in Indiana and offer more support to everyone involved. Visit the Level Up Pre-ETS website for registration details.