From November 16th – 20th Kamiakin DECA, led by Brielle Olson and Emily Thoelke and the SADD Club (Students Against Destructive Decisions), sponsored a Suicide Awareness/Prevention week. Results from a survey taken last year at Kamiakin indicated that 17.3% have had thoughts of suicide within the past year. This statistic startled our staff and students, thus, the campaign was created.
During this week DECA and SADD members handed out Life Savers with the Suicide Prevention Hotline telephone number and three easy steps to help somebody with suicidal issues to get help. The point of this activity was to “BE A LIFESAVER.” DECA members, Emily and Brielle went to all the health classes on Tuesday November 17th and presented ideas on how to help someone with thoughts about suicide and what is best to do in a suicidal situation. They focused on making students aware that there is always somebody that would be willing to listen if they are ever in need.
A video announcement was made that really hit home with the students. The video featured Kamiakin students answering questions regarding how they would help make other student’s days better. The suicide statistics from the survey were included. Daily announcements in the school bulletin voiced how serious and realistic suicide is.
Surveys taken at the end of the week indicated that the staff and students at Kamiakin High School are more aware of how to prevent and report suicidal thoughts. We feel that this will help in the fight against harmful acts to self and others. Great job Emily and Brielle for a successful campaign!
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