We all have a role in preventing suicide. Join Garland ISD’s Guidance & Counseling Department during the month of September as we work to bring awareness to Suicide Prevention. National Suicide Prevention Week is a part of Suicide Prevention Month.

5 steps

Use the five steps to help communicate with someone struggling with suicide:

1. Ask
   When you ask “Are you thinking about suicide?”, you show you’re open to speaking about suicide in a non-judgmental and supportive way. Be sure to listen and not promise to keep it a secret.
2. Be there
   Help support the person struggling by being physically present, speaking with them on the phone when you can, or any other way that shows support for the person at risk.
3. Keep them safe
   Understand their thoughts and feelings. Ask them questions about if they've planned an attempt and other related questions.
4. Help them connect
   Connect your friend to supports such as their school counselor, a mental health professional, or a number like the Lifeline (800-273-8255 or text HELLO to 741741) to help them establish a safety net for crises.
5. Follow up
   Call, text, or video chat with the person you connected with to see how they are doing. Be a friend, show your support and see if they need anything.

Learn more about suicide prevention on afsp.org. To connect with your counseling department, message AskCounseling@garlandisd.net.