September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of this stigmatized, and often taboo, topic. Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. It’s important to be aware of warning signs that someone may be considering suicide, such as:

• Loss of interest in usual activities
• Increased or decreased sleep
• Increased alcohol and drug use
• Aggressive behavior
• Withdrawal from friends, family and community 
• Dramatic mood swings
• Impulsive or reckless behavior
• Giving away possessions
• Tying up loose ends, like organizing personal papers or paying off debts
• Saying goodbye to friends and family

If you suspect that someone is having suicidal thoughts, it’s OK to ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide. If you or someone you know needs support, please seek help from a professional. 

The Leander ISD Student and Family Support Team is a program available to students (with guardian consent) that provides mental health support to students such as school-based therapy and connection to community resources. The Student and Family Support Team is composed of Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Master Social Workers and Licensed Professional Counselors. To access these services please speak with your assigned student’s counselor or assistant principal and request an SFST referral.