NCJ Number
117032
Date Published
1988
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The sharp increase in the rate of suicide among teenagers in the United States points to the need for schools to develop procedures for detecting potential teen suicide victims and helping students and staff cope after a suicide. The Golden (Colo.) High School has such a program.
Abstract
The teen suicide rate has tripled since 1955 and doubled since 1970. An estimated 500,000 to 1,000,000 young people attempt suicide each year. To respond to this problem, Golden High School has established a comprehensive intervention plan. A response team of teachers, counselors, students, and administrators implements the program and informs the school staff about intervention procedures. A core response team made up of one administrator, the school worker, and two counselors are responsible for planning and making decisions regarding how to carry out procedures. The team also coordinates school efforts with the appropriate outside resources such as parent organizations, police, mental health agencies, social services, and clergy. Program components include prevention training, responses to suicide referrals, responses to attempts, and responses to completions. Lists of program guidelines.