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SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL Learning Topic of The Month:
SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL Learning Topic of The Month:
September - Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
September - Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
The Department of Guidance and Counseling is committed to providing a wealth of information and resources for the parents and students of Alvin ISD. Our students' social, emotional, and mental well-being is of the utmost importance. Each month, this newsletter will contain information and tips to help you educate and spark conversations with your child(ren) about the importance of social emotional learning and mental health/wellness. Below you will find links to resources for both parents and students as well as a feedback form to ensure we are covering topics important to the families of Alvin ISD.
we see you. you matter. you belong.
we see you. you matter. you belong.
Every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and valued. During Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, Alvin ISD encourages families and community members to learn the warning signs of emotional distress, begin caring conversations, and know where to turn for help.
Suicide prevention begins with connection. A trusted adult who notices, listens, and responds can make a meaningful difference in a young person’s life.
Recognize the Warning Signs
Warning signs may look different depending on a child’s age. Pay attention to new, sudden, or concerning changes, including:
Talking, writing, drawing, or posting about death, suicide, or feeling hopeless
Saying they are a burden or that others would be better off without them
Withdrawing from family, friends, school, or activities
Significant changes in mood, behavior, sleep, appetite, hygiene, or academic performance
Giving away meaningful possessions or saying goodbye unexpectedly
Increased substance use, impulsive behavior, or dangerous risk-taking
Searching for ways to harm themselves
Not every warning sign means a child is considering suicide, but concerning changes should always be taken seriously.
Insightful parenting
Insightful parenting
Start a Caring Conversation
Asking directly about suicide does not put the idea into a child’s mind. Instead, it communicates that you are willing to listen and help. You might say, “I’ve noticed some changes, and I’m concerned about you. Can you tell me what you’ve been feeling?” You may also ask directly, “Sometimes when people feel overwhelmed, they think about hurting themselves or suicide. Have you had thoughts like that?” If the child shares that they are struggling, reassure them by saying, “Thank you for telling me. You are not in trouble, and you do not have to face this alone.” Listen calmly and without judgment, criticism, lecturing, disbelief, or immediately trying to solve everything.
If a Child Says "Yes"
Stay calm, take the response seriously, and remain with the child while continuing to listen. Do not promise to keep thoughts of suicide a secret. Remove or secure firearms, medications, and other potentially dangerous items, and contact a mental health professional or crisis service. If you are not the child’s caregiver, notify their parent or guardian immediately.
Strengthen Protective Connections
Families can help children build hope and resilience by creating regular opportunities for honest conversation, listening without judgment, and helping children identify trusted adults. Encourage healthy coping strategies, meaningful activities, and connections with family, school, culture, faith, teams, or the community. Seek professional support early when concerns arise, and remind children that asking for help is a sign of strength.
Create a Family Circle of Support
As a family, identify three trusted adults your child can contact, two healthy activities that help them cope, one place where they feel safe and supported, and one reason they feel hopeful about the future. Keep this information easily accessible and revisit it regularly as your child’s needs and support system change.
Please reach out to a campus counselor, administrator, nurse, or another trusted staff member if you have concerns about your child's well-being.
fact-sheet-key-differences-988-vs-911 (2).pdfBULLYING
If you have concerns about your child being bullied, use the link above to make a report.
Mentoring
did you know you can become a mentor for a student in ALvin ISD?
did you know you can become a mentor for a student in ALvin ISD?
Make a difference and become a mentor! Help aspire a student by clicking on the image.
Resources
Psychiatric_ Behavioral Counseling Resource List.docx26-27.pdfBTS-Getting-the-Right-Start.pdfWith Kids In Mind: Topic Request
YOUR INPUT IS VALUED!!
YOUR INPUT IS VALUED!!
Are there topics that are important to you and your family?
Let Us Know!
You can click on the image to submit a request for topics you would like us to cover this school year.
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