The At-Risk Child: Depression and Suicide in Youth

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth 15 to 24 years of age in the United States. Suicide is also becoming more prevalent in children younger than 15 years old. As educators, we all need to be aware of the warning signs for depression and suicide to provide timely assistance to our students who are suffering. While it is important for school counselors and social workers to recognize these signs, it is also just as important for teachers to recognize these signs as teachers have the most contact with students, may see the signs sooner, and are therefore often in a key position to assist students in obtaining the help they need in a more timely manner.

This course is designed to assist participants in identifying risk factors associated with suicide in K-12 students, to provide attendees with available suicide awareness and prevention resources, and to help participants become more effective at supporting at-risk students. Attendees will also evaluate the latest research on suicide rates and prevention among youths and become familiar with applicable state reporting laws.