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Mental Health Resources and Suicide Prevention Education

Mental Health Resources and Suicide Prevention Education

Act 71 was signed into law in Pennsylvania on June 26, 2014.

This law, which was added to the PA School Code, specifically requires school entities to (1) adopt a youth suicide awareness and prevention (see DLSD's policy), and (2) provide ongoing professional development in youth suicide awareness and prevention for professional educators in building serving students in grades 6-12. Additionally, Section 1526 specifically permits school entities to incorporate curriculum on this topic into their instructional programs pursuant to their youth suicide awareness and prevention policies.

The Deer Lakes School District provides training to the district personnel in compliance with Act 71. In addition to the current district mental health programming, starting in February 2021, Deer Lakes High School began implementing the Signs of Suicide (SoS) Program.

The following information is resources from the SoS Program and the Pennsylvania Department of Education.  

Parent Information on Signs of Suicide Program

A poster with the acronym ACT, providing advice for parents and caregivers on how to support a child who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts.

A guide on how to help children who may be thinking about suicide, with tips on how to talk to them and resources for mental health support.

Crisis Resources

If you or someone you know is in crisis NOW immediately:

An image illustrating the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, symbolizing hope and providing help and support for those in need.

 

Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

 

An illustration of a crisis text hotline, featuring a phone and text bubbles, symbolizing support and communication in emergencies.

 

Text HOME to 741741 at any time from anywhere in the U.S. to reach the confidential Crisis Text Line to speak to a Crisis Counselor. 

 

Call the local Resolve Crisis Center at 1-888-796-8226.

Additional Resources

  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

    AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by funding research, educating the public, advocating for public policies, and supporting survivors.

  • Prevent Suicide PA

    Mission - To support those who are affected by suicide, provide education, awareness, and understanding by collaborating with the community to prevent suicide, and reduce the stigma associated with suicide.

  • Suicide Prevention Resource Center

    Provides resources to educators and other stakeholders on youth and adult suicide prevention.

  • Services for Teens At Risk (STAR)

    A comprehensive research, treatment, and training center. The program provides individual assessment and treatment to teens. They also provide community education services about depression and suicidality.

  • The Trevor Project

    Leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth.

  • Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide

    A video for parents and other caretakers titled, "Not My Kid: What Every Parent Should Know."