Helpful Knowledge

See “Training” helpful information covered in our trainings, including information about suicide.

From the National Association of School Psychologists–

Symptoms of Stress

• Irritability or unusual emotionality or volatility.

• Sleep difficulty or nightmares.

• Inability to concentrate.

• Drop in grades or other functioning.

• Toileting or eating concerns.

• Headaches or stomachaches.

• Unexplained fears or increased anxiety (that also can take the form of clinging).

• Regression to earlier developmental levels.

• Isolation from family activities or peer relationships.

• Drug or alcohol experimentation.

Factors That Help Prevent Stress

• Positive problem solving and coping skills.

• Close, supportive relationships at home and school, with peers and adults.

• Clear expectations.

• Permission and ability to learn from mistakes.

• Developing competencies (academic, social, extracurricular, and life skills).

• Consistent, positive discipline.

• Ability to express feelings appropriately.

• Feeling physically and emotionally safe.

• Good nutrition and exercise.

• Time to relax or do recreational activities.

We have compiled some useful information below that may help you if you encounter any serious situations dealing with suicide and depression. If you have any questions or concerns, in general or about a particular situation you are dealing with, please email us at rockatgunn@gmail.com, and we will do our best to help you and respond in a timely manner.

From the National Association of School Psychologists–

What to Do If You Know Someone is suicidal:

Youth who feel suicidal are not likely to seek help directly; however, parents, school personnel, and peers can recognize the warning signs and take immediate action to keep the youth safe. When a youth gives signs that he or she may be considering suicide, the following actions should be taken:

• Remain calm.
• Ask the youth directly if he or she is thinking about suicide.
• Focus on your concern for their wellbeing and avoid being accusatory.
• Listen.
• Reassure them that there is help and they will not feel like this forever.
• Do not judge.
• Provide constant supervision. Do not leave the youth alone.
• Remove means for self-harm.
• Get help: Peers should not agree to keep the suicidal thoughts a secret and instead should tell an adult, such as a parent, teacher, or school psychologist. Parents should seek help from school or community mental health resources as soon as possible. School staff should take the student to the designated school mental health professional or administrator.