[Ebpm]

Alright everyone, it's time to shed a little light on the subject for middle schoolers and all that comes in the exclusive club of depression that no one wants to belong to. recently, two more kids from school went to a hospital in Pembroke...and despite the sour subject everyone is talking about it.

People don't understand depression or SI at all. Especially not teens, so I have a meeting set up with the principal and am creating Suicide Awareness Week. (ironically it's S.A.W)

In short, I want your stories-it's anonymous duh-and thoughts on the subject.

Any input is greatly appreciated! Thank you!

[sugahorse1]

I think this is a great initiative.
Through my own experiences, it's often the quiet ones at school, that are already withdrawing due to depression, that are most susceptible, yet the least able to ask for help.
Low self-esteem and depression go hand in hand.
It's important people are aware of the topic, and maybe even the teachers being more aware to pick up changes in a teen.
Creating an environment where a teen can feel safe and open up, is imperative too.
Anonymity is possibly a safe initial step-is it possible to have an anonymous 'penpal' type setup between a teen and a trained professional at a school?

Sorry, really going off on a tangent, but hope there's something useful in there, lol

[glitterandspots]

This is an awesome idea

I know at my school there is an epidemic of self-harm, but it's not dealt with positively- if we're caught we get suspended. This probably isn't the best way to deal with it, considering my friend just tried even harder because she was at home alone.

In saying that, the teachers aren't exactly observant. I think awareness is pretty important to help people stop.

[lxegirl]

I think this is a great idea. Suicide and self harm isnt talked about in school at all, the closest we have is anti bullying campaigns. It would be great for people to be aware and great if there was support rather than just saying the person is selfish or just wants attention, which is something i've heard before. So this is a great idea, thanks!