Introduction
Suicide among school-going children is a growing concern around the world. Recently two student suicides within 4 days of each other in Kota, the coaching district of Rajasthan, shook the whole nation and brought the issue of student suicides in the limelight. Already Kota has registered 23 suicides in this year 2023 the highest so far in a year. This is a worrying trend. Suicide Prevention strategies for school-going children are a need of the hour in today’s competitive and fast-paced world.
The month of September is observed as the National Suicide Prevention Month worldwide. During this time, we remember the millions of people who have battled with persistent thoughts of committing suicide, the lives lost to suicide, and the people, families, and communities who have been affected. It is also a moment to spread inspirational messages and raise awareness about suicide prevention.
In this post as part of the awareness drive for National Suicide Prevention Month, let us understand the Risk factors and learn about helpful strategies that can prevent suicides in school-going children.
Some facts about Suicide
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines suicide as “death caused by self-inflicted injuries with the intention of dying from the result of such actions.
According to the WHO survey, the Indian national average of suicide is even higher than the global average and people in the age group of 15-29 years and elderly are at maximum risk.
Recent data shows that the number of suicides in India has increased by 60% since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Teenage is a critical period of development where youngsters often grapple with various challenges, including academic pressure, bullying, peer pressure, body image , and mental health issues. As parents, educators, and communities, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to prevent suicide among school-going children and provide them with the support they need.
Understanding the Suicide Risks in School going children
Before we delve into Suicide prevention strategies, it’s essential to recognize the risk factors associated with suicide in school-going children:
- Mental Health Issues: Psychiatric diseases have a very strong association with suicide. Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder can significantly increase the risk of suicide.
- Bullying: Persistent bullying can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair.
- Academic Pressure: Intense academic pressure and high expectations can cause excessive stress.
- Peer Pressure: Trying to fit in or conform to peer expectations can create emotional turmoil.
- Substance Abuse: Substance abuse like is often linked to suicidal thoughts, alcohol and opiates are the most common cause of reckless or violent behavior and suicide attempts.
- Family Problems: Issues like divorce, Emotional or sexual abuse, or neglect at home can increase feelings of isolation and despair.
- Previous Suicide Attempts: A history of previous suicide attempts increases the likelihood of future attempts.
- Genetics : A family history of mental health disorders like Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder , Depression etc., could predispose a child to developing suicidal tendency.
Key strategies to Prevent Suicides in School going Children
Suicide prevention in school-going children and adolescents is of paramount importance. Schools play a critical role in identifying, addressing, and preventing suicidal behavior among students. Here are some key strategies and considerations for suicide prevention in school settings:
- Create a Supportive School Environment:
- Foster a culture of acceptance, inclusion, and empathy within the school community.
- Train teachers and staff to recognize signs of distress or bullying among students.
- Implement anti-bullying programs to reduce the risk of peer victimization.
- Mental Health Education:
- Incorporate mental health education into the curriculum to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
- Teach students about stress management, coping strategies, and emotional well-being.
- Provide information on available mental health resources both within and outside the school.
- Early Identification and Intervention:
- Train school personnel to recognize warning signs of suicide, such as changes in behavior, withdrawal, or expressions of hopelessness.
- Establish clear reporting procedures for staff and students to report concerns about their peers.
- Create a system for assessing and supporting at-risk students through school counselors or mental health professionals.
- Mental Health Services:
- Ensure that school counselors and psychologists are well-trained in suicide prevention and intervention.
- Offer easy access to mental health services within the school.
- Collaborate with local mental health agencies for additional support when needed.
- Peer Support Programs:
- Parent and Caregiver Involvement:
- Educate parents and caregivers about the signs of suicide risk and how to support their children’s mental health.
- Encourage open communication between parents and school staff.
- Crisis Response Plan:
- Develop a clear and comprehensive crisis response plan that outlines the steps to follow in the event of a suicide threat or attempt.
- Ensure that all school staff are familiar with this plan and their roles in responding to crises.
- Promote Resilience:
- Offer programs and activities that promote resilience and emotional well-being, such as mindfulness, stress reduction, and character education.
- Encourage extracurricular activities and hobbies that can provide a sense of purpose and belonging.
- Regular Training and Professional Development:
- Provide ongoing training and professional development for school staff on suicide prevention and mental health support.
- Stay up-to-date on best practices and evidence-based interventions.
- Collaboration with Community Resources:
- Partner with local mental health organizations, crisis hotlines, and hospitals to ensure a coordinated response to student mental health needs.
- Establish a network of support beyond the school setting.
Conclusion
Let us not forget that suicide prevention is an ongoing effort that requires collaboration among educators, parents, students, and mental health professionals. Creating a safe and supportive school environment can go a long way in helping students thrive emotionally and academically while reducing the risk of suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please seek help immediately from a mental health professional or a crisis hotline.
The National suicide prevention Helpline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. Please do save this number – 1800-121-3667 ( for INDIA)
A skilled mental health professional is available to listen in and help you or your loved ones through a mental crisis. It’s Free and Its confidential.
Remember – A suicide can be prevented by looking out for the risk factors, by talking about it , by seeking timely help.
This post is part of Blogchatter’s CauseAChatter.
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Outset Books.
#Sinplypretty #abetterlife #Halehealthyhearty #Homeopathy #DrPreetiChauhan #MentalHealth #SuicidePrevention #SuicidePreventionMonth #Suicideinchildren
It is so important to spread awareness about this and also to sensitise schools and children regularly. I recently came across a post on LinkedIn in which a young boy committed suicide as the teacher suspected him of cheating. This happened while the parents were sitting with the principal. It was terrifying to read this. I think they need counsellors in schools and teachers too must be trained.
Absolutely, kids today are sensitive, and social media makes them even more vulnerable. It is time that teachers and parents learn to look for possible signs of suicidal tendencies. Every school should have one or more counselors for this purpose.
Recently the death of a movie actor’s daughter attracted media attention and various discussions regarding the need for understanding the children and what they are going through. But sadly this will die down and the life goes back to normal. Posts like yours are sure change atleast a few people and their perspectives.
Recently the death of a movie actor’s daughter attracted media attention and various discussions regarding the need for understanding the children and what they are going through. But sadly this will die down and the life goes back to normal. Posts like yours are sure change atleast a few people and their perspectives. This beautiful life. What a tragedy that a child wants to end it
It really is tragic and we do need to keep creating awareness and talk about it more to create a supportive atmosphere for our kids to grow in.
Awareness should be there about this topic. And the most important school teacher should be trained. Most of school teacher are giving such kind of stress. I often come across such incidents. My kiddo is talking so I get to know. Other causes also there. But parents should have communication with the kids at least 1 hour on daily basis.
As a teacher, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges many young people face. I agree, not all teachers understand concept of empathy and mental well being. Some are focused only on results, at any cost. This needs to change. Let’s continue to prioritize mental health and well-being in our schools, ensuring that every child knows they are not alone and that help is always available.
It is heartening to see such sentiments being aired by a teacher, we need more such empathetic people.Thank you Felicia.
One thing I have observed, children whose parents fight in front of them are not happy children. They tend to get low and have a negative impact/opinion on everything.
Yes, Sadvika, disharmony at home can create insecurity and feelings of not being cared for in a child.
I think you missed out one powerful reason. Over ambitious parents who pressurize the kids to excel and attempt all entrance exams. This pressure is too much for an average student.
I think every school should have a counsellor, whom the kids could leave notes without a name and she addresses the problem in front of the whole class.
Thank you for adding this Harjeet.This is very true of Indian and Asian parents.The fear that they will bring shame or will not be approved of if they score low in academics can create a distressing situation for a child.
This most should make rounds and help parents accept their kids for who they are and focus on mental health and happiness of the kids rather than marks. Good post
Thank you, Rose, I am sure awareness will create a difference.
it is an issue that has to be addressed with the tips you shared. strength to overcome the situation is the foremost way to prevent these painful incidents.
Yes,its true that there is a sharp increase in the number of suicide cases in recent time but who need to be blamed for that. I find it to be really wrong to blame the parents always for the young adults taking their lives. These days kids are highly demanding and if their demands don’t get fulfilled they take their lives without understanding what the hell they are doing. But yes, i do agree that the points that you have mentioned as tips can actually help to reduce suicide numbers to a great extent. As parents we can forward our hands of support to kids but how and when to hold it back strong for own wellness depends on the kids.
That is why building resilience from a young age is important, letting them take a No for an answer but it can be an informed No, which means we tell them both t econsequences of their decisions and let them decide accordingly and be accountable for the consequences.
This is such an important topic to address. Understanding the risk factors associated with suicide in school-going children is crucial for effective prevention. Mental health issues, academic pressure, bullying, and family problems can all contribute to emotional turmoil in children.
I also strongly believe that mental health training should not only be given to children but also to teachers. Teachers play a significant role in a child’s life, and they need to be equipped with the knowledge and tools to identify and support students who may be struggling with mental health issues.
It’s also really important to understand if mental health issues run in the family because it helps us get help early and support kids better. If we take this approach in schools, it can really help keep our children safe and healthy.
I agree Anjali , both teachers and family will need to make a concerted effort to help our children overcome stressful times.
Such an apt issue to address and create awareness for Preeti. From a personal experience I know that a reason for suicide can also be when parents try to keep a tab on the activities of young adults or deny excessive freedom. Someone I know underwent this tragedy last year n lost a child. These days kids at barely 15years of age think they know everything n have seen enough of the world. Some of them think that parents are their worst enemies. It’s scary the pace at which they are growing.
The Kota suicides are deeply saddening but despite all that, parents still want their kids to run the rat race whether they have it in them or not. It is very disheartening.
I really like the latter part of your blog about the support systems… It is so important!
Thank you Kaveri, times are changing and parents will need to be much more supportive to their children if they wish them to become healthy adults.
We read and write so much about suicide prevention but the authorities who must take action do nothing. Schools are adding so much academic pressure, bullying and name calling are still prevalent, no counseling….children are facing so much at such a young age. It’s scary!
The school has to stop creating the rat race and insist on the overall development of skills and stressing upon learning rather than scoring.
This us really of concern, I feel a school with a friendly approach to kods and teachers who don’t put pressure definitely are important for the future of the kods. Nowadays kids have so much pressure to go tru unlike us they go deep in thoughts when you tell them anything.
There can be many more reasons for depression and suicidal behavior other than stress, the good news is that timely medical intervention can help avert the loss of life.
This is something that’s been very alarming nowadays. A parent’s guidance is much more needed nowadays. We need to learn how to balance and gauge knowing what is enough and focus on what’s needed the most, especially for our children. Having the money to buy stuff we think our children would need and appreciate isn’t as valuable as the time you could spend with them nurturing their emotional and mental skills which couldn’t be bought by money nor learned in classes.
Children are under so much pressure these days. Not just from parents but from everyone else also. This is a topic people usually don’t talk about. Thank you for raising awareness about it.
This is the scariest thing that I dwell upon (on reading the news and all) as a parent. As parents we have to do our part, in building a foundation of strong mental health and keeping the environment at home calm and safe.
Reading about the suicides in Kota has been so heartbreaking. Kids are under such immense pressure these days. Yet it is brushed under the carpet for the sake of competition. Thank you for sharing such an important post, Preeti.
It is very saddening and disheartening to know such young kids decide to end their lives due to various reasons. Mostly due to the pressure from parents and secondly bullying. It is very important to have a support system especially in schools and a training or workshop to be held for all the parents too. No doubt we live in a competitive world but putting so much pressure on those young minds is very unfair.
Its so saddening and painful when I read these news . Such an important post you have addressed.
Your post sheds much-needed light on the critical issue of student suicides. It’s comprehensive and provides practical strategies for prevention. The emphasis on creating a supportive school environment is crucial. Let’s work together to prioritize the well-being of our youth.
Also I am saying this because I am already doing a campaign on this and we had come across certain cases like this. It would be great if you are a part of us.
Sure, I would love to be a part of such a campaign.
The school-going children are at a very vulnerable age. The pressures and stress are many and sometimes they break under it. It is so important for everyone, be it parents, peers, or teachers to be sensitive to the issue and exercise caution. Sandy N Vyjay
There is an increase in suicide in children and a vast opinion that the way of parenting can also be a reason why kids aren’t sharing their feelings. This post would help spread awareness
A very important post that I hope is read by many people.