Suicide is a leading cause of death among youth
Britten School recognizes that suicide is a leading cause of death among youth and that an even greater amount of youth considers (19 percent of high school students) and attempt suicide (over 9 percent of high school students) (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2019).
This policy is based on research and best practices in suicide prevention and has been adopted with the understanding that suicide prevention activities decrease suicide risk, increase help-seeking behavior, identify those at risk of suicide, and decrease suicidal behaviors. Empirical evidence refutes a common belief that talking about suicide can increase risk or “place the idea in someone’s mind.”
We have developed a policy that works to ensure the safety of students and involves faculty, students, parents and administration in the shared goal of student safety. We will utilize the Signs of Suicide® Prevention Program (SOS), an empirically based national suicide prevention program.
Risk is assessed and communicated promptly and safely
Additional professional development in suicide and homicide risk assessment and crisis intervention shall be provided to Licensed Social Workers employed by Britten School. The school’s Psychologist will train the Licensed Social Workers to assess levels of suicidality. Parents/Guardians will be notified immediately of any concerns or recommendations regarding their student.
We work to create a safe environment
Research tells us that allowing students a safe environment to express their feelings and address their concerns helps to keep them safe. We also must work to create a safe and nurturing environment that minimizes the risk of suicide. If there is a suicide attempt, serious injury, or fatality, Britten School will work tirelessly to ensure the safety and emotional well-being of its students and work in compliance with state and federal regulations.
We encourage parent involvement and provide annual training
Faculty, students and parents will receive annual training on the causes and signs of suicide.
Parents/Guardians are encouraged to make us aware of any concerns that they may have regarding their student. Please feel free to reach out to your Teams with any concerns, requests or questions that you may have. If there is an immediate concern, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK, is available 24/7 and provides immediate counseling and local mental health referrals.