Suicide Response Training

Residence Life Staff

William Peace University

 What stood out to you?

What do we take away?
What did he mean by Stigma?
How do we fight past the stigma to offer help?

* In 2011, 6% of college students report seriously

considering suicide and 1% attempted in the
past year
* Suicide is the second leading cause of death in
15-24 year olds

Signs

Risk Factors

* Talking about wanting to die

* Showing extreme mood
swings or volatility
* Increased substance use
* Sleeping all the time or not at
all
* Sudden isolation and
withdrawal
* Talking about being a burden

* Depression or mental health

diagnosis
* Substance Abuse
* Prior attempt
* Family history
* Abuse/trauma history
* Access to firearms
* Exposure to suicidal behavior
of peers

* Offer support, patience, and a safe place

* Never ignore comments about suicide
* Offer support after the student enters therapy
* Invite your friend out on walks or to activities; keep asking but never push
* Remind them that asking for help takes courage and is the first step to
feeling better

* MOST IMPORTANT: Follow the WPU crisis protocol for

any student you feel is in crisis