Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for individuals ages 10-14 years old according to the CDC. We can all help fight those numbers by educating ourselves about the warning signs of suicide and knowing how to get help for someone who may be having suicidal feelings. There are many different risk factors that may cause a person to feel this way. Below are some warning signs that you should be aware of. It is not a complete list due to the fact each person is unique and may show different warning signs. If you witness any of the following or have a concern, please report it immediately! We know that you may witness some of these warning signs on the weekends, at night, or some other time when a school counselor may not be available so we have provided instructions in the pages below for how to report something when you are not at school.
What to do if you hear or see something about a person wanting to harm themselves or if you have a concern based on any of the warning signs:
If you are a parent and your child shares something concerning about themselves or another student's safety, tell a counselor right away!
Do not wait to tell us. The sooner we can help the individual, the better.
Report the concern through Anonymous Alerts (link). Remember to give us as many details as possible so we can act quickly.
If it is at night, on a weekend, during summer, or anytime you are not at school you should call 988 to get support.
You can also report self-harm and suicidal comments or photos on social media sites to the police to get a well-check.
WHEN IN DOUBT REPORT IT TO SOMEONE.
If a person talks about:
Being a burden to others
Feeling trapped
Experiencing unbearable pain
Having no reason to live
Killing themselves
Specific things to look out for include:
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online for materials or means
Acting recklessly
Withdrawing from activities
Isolating from family and friends
Sleeping too much or too little
Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
Giving away prized possessions
Aggression
People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:
Depression
Loss of interest
Rage
Irritability
Humiliation
Anxiety
If you are having a mental health emergency or experiencing suicidal ideation, please contact 988 (National Support). If there is an imminent risk to you or to someone else, please call 911 for emergency services (i.e. ongoing suicide attempt)
Additional resources can be found below:
Suicide Prevention and counseling number - Call or text 988 - https://988lifeline.org/
Bluebonnet Trails Crisis Services (24 Hour):
1-800-841-1255
LINK: Bluebonnet Trails
(Williamson County)
Integral Care Help Line (24 Hour):
512-472-HELP (4357)
LINK: Integral Care
(Travis County)
Dell Children's Hospital - Cedar Park
1301 Medical Parkway, Cedar Park, 78613
254-537-9130