For Schools and Educators
Schools play a key role in suicide prevention. Teachers, counselors, and all school personnel can have a part in keeping students safe and showing them there is a community that cares about their mental health. Together we can create an environment that is prepared to support any student that is at risk for suicide.
Helpline Center is partnering with the South Dakota Department of Health and South Dakota Schools to launch and support Hope Squads. For more information about Helpline Center’s role as a Hope Squad Community Partner or to learn about how to launch a Hope Squad at your school contact hopesquad@helplinecenter.org
What is Hope Squad? Hope Squad is a school-based peer support team that partners with local mental health agencies. Peers select students who are trustworthy and caring to join the Hope Squad.
How does Hope Squad work? Squad members are trained by advisors to watch for at-risk students, provide friendship, identify suicide warning signs, and seek help from adults. The program reduces the risk of youth suicide through education, training, and peer intervention. To learn more about the history and efficacy of Hope Squad programming visit hopesquad.com
Postvention
Helpline Center staff can also provide a consultation regarding a Suicide Postvention Toolkit that recognizes the importance of structured support and a template for schools to navigate such tragic events. Contact griefsupport@helplinecenter.org to request a consultation.
Download the Postvention Toolkit HERE.
Other Resources
In South Dakota, other programs at place to help students include Signs of Suicide (SOS) a program that teaches students about the signs and symptoms of depression and suicide and how to support their fellow peers. Sources of Strength (SOS), is a project aimed at strengthening sources of support (protective factors) for students so they have strengths to rely on when times of difficulty come.
For a downloadable full list of suicide prevention resources and programs, click here.
Promotional Material and Presentations
The Helpline Center provides promotional materials (posters, lanyards, referral cards) upon request for high schools. The Helpline Center also provides presentations to students about 988 and suicide prevention. Material can be requested through the Helpline Center website. For presentations contact training@helplinecenter.org
