AFSP Model School Suicide Prevention Policy.pdf

The Model School District Policy on Suicide Prevention, developed by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and other contributing organizations, provides a comprehensive framework for preventing, intervening, and responding to suicide in schools. Key aspects include:

1. Policy Purpose and Scope: The policy aims to foster a safe and supportive school environment, promoting mental health and preventing suicide among students. It applies to all school personnel, students, and families.

2. Definitions: It defines crucial terms such as suicide, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and suicide prevention.

3. Prevention: Schools should implement evidence-based suicide prevention programs, promote mental health, and foster a culture of care and support.

4. Intervention: In case of a suicide attempt or threat, school personnel should follow established protocols, ensuring immediate safety, confidentiality, and appropriate support.

5. Parental Notification and Involvement: Parents/guardians should be notified and involved in the intervention process, unless doing so would put the student at risk.

6. Re-Entry Procedure: Schools should have a clear process for students returning to school after a suicide attempt, ensuring their safety and supporting their reintegration.

7. In-School and Out-of-School Suicide Attempts: The policy outlines specific responses for both scenarios.

8. After a Suicide Death: Schools should provide support to the bereaved, prevent suicide contagion, and coordinate with families and community resources.

9. Sample Language for Student Handbook: The policy includes sample language for student handbooks to inform students and families about the school's suicide prevention efforts.

10. Commentary: The policy discusses the importance of parental involvement, school-based mental health supports, risk and protective factors, best practices for suicide prevention task forces, referrals for LGBTQ youth, bullying, re-entry policies, state laws, district liability, and messaging to prevent suicide contagion.

11. Implementation: Schools should train staff on the policy, provide ongoing support, and regularly review and update the policy.

12. Resources: The policy concludes with a list of resources for further information and support.