School News
Suicide Prevention: You Are Not Alone
Created on September 22nd, 2024The health and well-being of our students are top priorities. We strive to ensure all students feel heard, understood and valued. We care deeply about every single student which is why we believe it’s important to raise awareness and build understanding for suicide prevention.
Learn About Suicide Prevention:
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- National Alliance on Mental Illness
In this 4-minute video produced by the Mayo Clinic, teens describe common signs of a young person who may be considering suicide and also provide tips on how parents can talk with their children about this topic. Please view and share.
Resources—you are not alone
1) SAP – Student Assistance Program
All Urbandale students and their families have access to the student assistance program. You do not need a referral. You can call the number directly, let them know you are an Urbandale School family, and request assistance.
- No-cost assessment, referral and short-term counseling for students and their family members for issues such as stress, school concerns, family and other relationship concerns, substance use, self-esteem struggles, and any other concern affecting individual or family well-being.
- Telephone support 24 hours/day, every day of the year.
- Counseling provided in Spanish and English.
- Telephone support and scheduling: (515) 244-6090.
- Learn more about the program by viewing the Student Assistance Program flyer
2) Michele Hamilton, Student, Family, and Community Services Specialist (SFCSS)
The SFCSS works for Urbandale Community Schools. Michele coordinates mental health services for children and families and connects families to needed resources in the community. To reach Michele, please call: 515-402-8538 or email: hamiltonm@urbandaleschools.com
3) 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. The Lifeline is comprised of a national network of over 200 local crisis centers, combining custom local care and resources with national standards and best practices.
4) Your Life Iowa
Your Life Iowa is a 24 hour help line with text and chat capabilities. It provides suicide support, bullying support, and other resources for parents and students. It includes warning signs, risk factors, and how to support others.
5) Safe+Sound Iowa
Safe+Sound Iowa—an anonymous reporting tool for students, teachers, parents, and community members to help identify and provide intervention for students in crisis before they harm themselves or others. Reports of safety concerns can be made securely and anonymously three ways: (1) Download the free Safe+Sound Iowa mobile app (2) Visit Safe and Sound Iowa “Make A Report” (3) Call 800-224-6018.
You are not alone. Please reach out. We will help you get through this.
You are not alone.