988 and Suicide Prevention Guide for Schools
The Mississippi Department of Mental Health has released a 988 and Suicide Prevention Guide for Schools, offering a toolkit to guide conversations about this difficult topic and point Mississippians to resources available to provide hope for those impacted by suicide.
In Mississippi, suicide is the third leading cause of death among adolescents and young adults ages 10-24, and it is the 14th leading cause of death for all ages. Despite these statistics, suicide is a preventable public health issue, and almost everyone would take action if they knew someone close to them was thinking about suicide.
“We are so grateful for everyone who works with us in the area of suicide prevention,” DMH Executive Director Wendy Bailey said. “Suicide is a difficult topic to discuss. It leaves such heartbreak in its wake that words often fail us when we are confronted with someone who has been affected by it. That’s why this toolkit and the need to share this information with our schools is so important.”
The guide drives home the fact that help is out there, often right at your fingertips. All it may take to save a life is to ask a question.
The guide offers information about warning signs, risk factors, and crucially, about 988. The three-digit dialing code for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7, offering access to free and confidential crisis counselors who can provide compassionate care and support for anyone. That includes students experiencing a mental health, substance use, or suicide crisis.
Teachers and administrators in schools are in prime positions to help students who need to support, and they can help promote 988 in a variety of ways, including:
• Learn more about 988 by visiting dmh.ms.gov.
• Educate your school community on 988.
• Ensure students know how to get connected.
• Order a physical 988 toolkit, put up 988 posters, and utilize other 988 materials throughout your school
campus.
• Download 988 graphics from the 988 virtual toolkit to share on school social media accounts.
• Add 988 as a resource on school newsletters, resource listings, manuals, policy, etc.
• Add 988 on student badges/IDs.
Teachers should also know that if they are worried about a student, they can contact 988 and a trained crisis specialist can help them navigate the situation.
“Everyone should know the warning signs and risk factors related to suicide, especially when and how to intervene with their friends, families, and loved ones,” Bailey said. “If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out.”