As a part of Cranberry Area School District’s Suicide Awareness and Prevention Plan, we want all students, parents and teachers to be aware of the early warning signs and risk factors that a person may be at risk for depression or suicide. Early identification of individuals with one (1) or more suicidal risk factors or of individuals exhibiting warning signs is crucial to the district’s suicide prevention efforts.
Risk factors refer to personal or environmental characteristics that are associated with suicide including, but not limited to:
- Behavioral Health Issues/Disorders:
- Depression
- Substance abuse or dependence
- Previous suicide attempts
- Self injury.
- Personal Characteristics:
- Hopelessness/Low self-esteem
- Loneliness/Social alienation/isolation/lack of belonging
- Poor problem-solving or coping skills
- Impulsivity/Risk-taking/recklessness
- Adverse/Stressful Life Circumstances:
- Interpersonal difficulties or losses
- Disciplinary or legal problems
- Bullying (victim or perpetrator)
- School or work issues
- Physical, sexual or psychological abuse
- Exposure to peer suicide
- Family Characteristics:
- Family history of suicide or suicidal behavior
- Family mental health problems
- Divorce/Death of parent/guardian
- Parental-Child relationship
Warning signs are indications that someone may be in danger of suicide, either immediately or in the near future. Warning signs include, but are not limited to:
- Expressions such as hopelessness, rage, anger, seeking revenge, feeling trapped, anxiety, agitation, no reason to live or sense of purpose.
- Recklessness or risky behavior.
- Increased alcohol or drug use.
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or society.
- Dramatic mood changes.
If you are concerned that you or someone you know is at risk, please tell one of our guidance counselors so that we can make sure that person is safe and secure, and getting any help that they might need. You can e-mail Mr. Godinich at agodinich@cranberrysd.org , or Mrs. Corbett at lcorbett@cranberrysd.org .
