Davis Joint Unified School District

Mental Health and Wellness

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, encourage open conversations about mental health, and remind students, families, and staff that help is available and no one has to face difficult moments alone.

Suicide prevention starts with connection. Checking in with someone, listening without judgment, and encouraging them to reach out for help can be meaningful steps. Learning to recognize warning signs, listening without judgment, and connecting someone with trusted adults or professional support can help save lives. If you notice significant changes in someone's mood, behavior, relationships, or overall well-being, don't be afraid to ask how they are doing and connect them with a trusted adult or mental health professional.

Talking about suicide can feel difficult, but asking someone directly if they are thinking about suicide does not put the idea in their head. Honest, caring conversations can help someone feel seen, heard, and supported.

Resources for Students, Families & Staff

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also use the online chat. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Suicide Prevention: Information about suicide prevention, warning signs, finding help, and resources for individuals and families. NIMH Suicide Prevention Resources
• NIMH Warning Signs of Suicide: A printable resource that helps families and caregivers recognize behaviors and feelings that may indicate someone is thinking about suicide. Warning Signs of Suicide — NIMH
• NIMH 5 Action Steps: A helpful guide for supporting someone who may be experiencing thoughts of suicide: Ask, Be There, Help Keep Them Safe, Help Them Connect, and Follow Up. 5 Action Steps to Help Someone Having Thoughts of Suicide
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): Talk Away the Dark: Conversation guides, videos, resources, and practical information for talking about suicide and supporting someone who may be struggling. AFSP — Talk Away the Dark
• 988 Partner Resources: Free materials, social media resources, print materials, and awareness tools for schools and communities. 988 Lifeline Partner Resources

If You or Someone You Know Is in Crisis

Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support, available 24/7.

If there is an immediate, life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Together, we can create a school community where everyone feels seen, heard, valued, and supported.