What to Do When a Student Is at Risk of Suicide

What Every School Counselor Needs to Know: Responding to Students at Risk of Suicide

Working as a school counselor isn’t just about helping students plan their academic pathways — it’s about being there for them during their toughest moments, too. And while it feels like a heavy topic, knowing how to support a student at risk of suicide is essential to the job. So, what should school counselors do when they find themselves face-to-face with a student in crisis? Let’s break it down.

The First Step: Conducting a Risk Assessment

Picture this: a student walks into your office looking distraught, their eyes filled with tears. You feel the weight of their despair hanging in the air. Before any productive conversation can take place, it’s crucial to assess the risk. This isn’t just about asking a few direct questions; it’s about creating a safe space where they can feel comfortable opening up.

First, gauge the severity of the situation. Ask open-ended questions. “How have you been feeling lately?” or “Can you share what’s been weighing on your mind?” By doing this, you’re helping the student articulate feelings that may be tangled up inside. You know what? Sometimes just putting thoughts into words is a big relief.

Immediate Support: Letting Them Know They’re Not Alone

Now, let’s talk about support. Once you assess the student’s risk, your next move is to provide immediate emotional support. Validating their feelings is key; let them know that what they’re experiencing is significant and worthy of attention. It’s not just a phase or something they should simply ‘get over.’ Instead, say things like, “I’m really glad you shared this with me. It’s really important that we talk about it.”

This isn’t just about conveyance of empathy; it’s about building trust. If they sense you genuinely care, it encourages them to open up and share their struggles. Offering a listening ear can sometimes be the first step toward healing.

The Importance of Referring to Mental Health Services

Here’s the thing: sometimes, despite your best efforts, a student might need more specialized help than you can provide. This is where referrals to mental health services come into play. It might sound daunting, but helping them connect with a professional who can offer deeper support goes a long way in safeguarding their well-being.

When you refer a student to mental health services, you are showing them that they can receive the specialized care they need. This doesn’t diminish your role as a counselor; instead, it reinforces the importance of collaboration. After all, you can’t do it all alone, right? Just like how a coach enlists trainers for various aspects of athletic training, school counselors can tap into the resources available in mental health services.

Common Missteps to Avoid: What Not to Do

Now, let’s take a moment to discuss what you definitely shouldn’t do when someone shares their suicidal thoughts with you. Ignoring their feelings or dismissing them as typical teenage angst? That's a no-go! Can you imagine what that would feel like for a student in crisis? It might send them further into darkness, isolating them and making them feel like they don’t matter.

Similarly, waiting for their families to take action isn’t the right path either. Family dynamics can complicate things, and it’s essential to take initiative. By acting proactively, you show that the student's well-being is your priority, and you’re equipped to help. After all, they came to you first for a reason!

Safety First: Keeping a Support Network

In addition to individual counseling, creating a support network can be a lifesaver. Whether it's connecting the student with trusted teachers or providing resources for peers, building a safety net can be beneficial. Ensuring that the student has access to ongoing support outside your sessions can help reduce feelings of isolation.

It’s like building a bridge: the more connections you have, the sturdier it is. So why not build a bridge that can carry them to safety? In doing so, you not only help them cope but empower them to create their own support system.

Continual Learning and Growth

As education and mental health continues to evolve, staying informed about new approaches and resources is essential. There’s a wealth of workshops, webinars, and materials out there tailored specifically for school counselors. Engaging with these resources not only boosts your skills but also serves as a reminder that you’re not alone in this work—there’s a whole community of professionals dedicated to helping students thrive.

As you navigate the complexities of your role, remember: responding to a student at risk of suicide involves compassion, discernment, and a firm commitment to get them the help they need. A school counselor is a critical lifeline, bridging the gap between distress and healing. With every interaction, remind yourself that your support could be the light in someone’s darkest hour.

Wrap-Up: The Power of Your Role as a School Counselor

At the end of the day, being a school counselor means stepping up not just during the expected moments, but also in the unpredictable, intense moments of students' lives. Every conversation, every act of support matters. So, whether you’re conducting a nuanced risk assessment, providing heartfelt support, or referring a distressed student to valuable mental health resources, remember that you play an invaluable role in their journey toward healing. You hold the power to make a difference when it matters the most.