127. Suicide Prevention in Schools: What Counselors Need to Know

Update: 2025-09-10

Description

Suicide prevention isn’t easy to talk about—but it’s a conversation we can’t afford to avoid. In this episode of Counselor Chat, I share strategies, stories, and resources to help school counselors navigate this difficult but critical topic.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

How to have age-appropriate conversations with students about suicide and mental health.
Practical steps for creating student safety plans that are clear, collaborative, and effective.
The role teachers play as gatekeepers, and how training can help them recognize signs and take appropriate action.
Why we need to set expectations with staff about reporting concerns immediately—not at the end of the day.
How we as counselors can support not just students, but also teachers, staff, and families in this work.

💡 Remember: suicide prevention isn’t only about stopping a crisis—it’s about building hope, creating systems of support, and reminding students that they matter.

🔗 Resources mentioned in this episode:

Grades 6-7 Suicide Prevention Lesson

Suicide Prevention Grades 8 and up Lesson

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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