Suicide Prevention

Students’ safety and well-being are of utmost importance to all JCPS staff members. Counselors are trained in recognizing warning signs/risk factors of suicide and are knowledgeable of statistics related to suicide. Counselors have the skills to talk with students regarding their social/emotional status. If a counselor believes a student is in possible danger of inflicting harm to himself or herself, the parent/guardian will be notified immediately to collaborate on next steps to get the student mental health assistance.

In addition, middle schools and high schools are required to disseminate suicide prevention awareness information to all students by September 1 of each school year (House Bill 51-2010). All certified middle and high school staff, including principals, guidance counselors, and teachers, complete a minimum of two hours of self-study review of suicide prevention materials each school year (Senate Bill 65-2010).

In addition to training for middle and high school students and staff, JCPS is going a step further to protect and support all students. Starting in the 2016-17 school year, all JCPS elementary teachers and administrators will also receive training on suicide prevention. This training will be completed each year by October 1.  

Everyone should be familiar with warning signs of suicide in the event you recognize these signs in a loved one and need to seek help for him or her. Warning signs include the following:

  • Talking about wanting to die
  • Looking for ways to hurt/kill oneself
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
  • Acting anxious or behaving recklessly
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Withdrawing or feeling isolated
  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
  • Displaying extreme mood swings
  • Increasing use of alcohol or drugs
  • Beginning to give away prized possessions

Community resources are available to assist if you feel that your child or loved one is having suicidal thoughts.

Community Resources

Our Lady of Peace* (502) 479-4170
The Brook* (502) 896-0495
Lincoln Train Behavioral Health System 1-800-274-7374
Wellstone (812) 284-8000
Acute Child Psychiatric Services* (502) 589-8070
Kosair Hospital (502) 629-6000

*Mobile assessment available

Additional Resources