New Toolkit to Help Schools Cope with Suicide
Each week, the Higher Education Center showcases recent developments in the field of AOD abuse and violence prevention in higher education that may include new data and resources, upcoming events and programs, funding opportunities, and learning opportunities. To see a listing of previous This Week! features, visit the This Week! archive.
May 20, 2011
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, two of the nation’s leading suicide prevention organizations, have collaborated to produce a toolkit to assist schools in the aftermath of a suicide (or other death) in the school community. After a Suicide: A Toolkit for Schools includes an overview of key considerations, general guidelines for action, do’s and don’ts, templates, and sample materials, all in an easily accessible format applicable to diverse populations and communities.
This toolkit draws on scientific research and best practices, discusses warning signs and risk factors for suicide, and emphasizes that schools should inform students about the connection between suicide and underlying disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Administrators are also encouraged to remind the community about available mental health resources as well as provide guidance on handling such events as memorial services and graduation ceremonies.
Full citation: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Suicide Prevention Resource Center. After a Suicide: A Toolkit for Schools (Newton, Mass.: Education Development Center, Inc., 2011).