Dear MVRHS Parent / Guardian,
MVRHS is committed to the ongoing promotion of mental health within our school community. During the first semester we completed our second year of Teen Mental Health First Aid (TMHFA) in all the sophomore health classes and next week all students and staff will participate in year two of Signs of Suicide (SOS).
This one-day lesson will take place during the Mentor Meeting on Friday, February 17th. The SOS curriculum supports all students in identifying signs of risk in themselves and in their peers, as well as to know where to get help if needed. Prior to the lesson our staff will be refreshed on how to identify and respond to students exhibiting signs of risk or challenge, while continuing to build stronger connections with students daily.
SOS has been used by thousands of schools over the past few decades. Studies have shown that it effectively teaches students about depression and suicide while reducing the number of students’ self-reported suicide attempts. Research has shown that students who received SOS were 64% less likely to attempt suicide in the next 3 months (Schilling et al., 2016).
Through the program, students learn:
Students will watch video clips and participate in a guided discussion about depression, suicide, and what to do if they are concerned about themselves or a friend. After the lesson, we will ask students to complete an exit slip identifying if they would like to speak with a counselor. As always, our counseling staff will be available to speak with any student
We encourage you to visit I-CARE MVRHS for information on warning signs for youth suicide, useful resources, and some of the key messages students will learn. There, you can find the following:
Please let us know in writing by February 15th, 2023 only if you do not wish your child to participate in the curriculum. If you have any questions about this program please contact Amy Lilavois, Adjustment Counselor and Wellness Coordinator, alilavois@mvyps.org. You may also reach out to any of our school counselors.
Sincerely,
Sara Dingledy, Principal