What should a teacher do when a student shares that he or she is suicidal? First, never leave the individual alone. Do not let them leave the building alone. Our responsibility is to connect the struggling individual to a person who can make certain that the student is safe. Follow the principles of ACT - Ask/Aware Care Tell:
ASK or be Aware - Most people who die by suicide gave some indication of their intention to those close to them. Listen attentively. Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide. Ask if they have a plan to commit suicide (if they have a plan TELL immediately).
CARE - Show that you care by listening to what they say. Give them time to explain how they are feeling. Respect their feelings by saying something such as, “I’m sorry you are in so much pain” or “I didn’t realize how hard things were for you.” Testify of the Saviour and His Atonement.
TELL - Get help immediately, even if the individual is unwilling to accept help. When a student shares that he or she has suicidal thoughts, we must connect them to the following individuals:
1. Priesthood leaders: The first step is to contact the priesthood leader. Inform the bishop or branch president of what has been shared. Ask the priesthood leader if he would like to contact the parents or if he would recommend that you do so. In some cases, home life may be part of the problem. Contacting the priesthood leaders first will help you know the dynamics of the home.
2. Parents: If the bishop recommends that the teacher contact the parents, contact the parents. Share with them what the student told you.
Never promise to keep their thoughts of suicide secret. If they ask you not to tell anyone, explain that you will respect their privacy as much as possible, but they need more help than you can give. Encourage them to tell a counselor, parent, or priesthood leader. Ultimately, you must share it with the priesthood leader and parents.
If there is an immediate threat, call 000.
Scenario:
You notice that Jose has not been engaged in class. You ask if he can visit with you for a few minutes after class. He says to you, “I am so tired of everything. Nothing ever changes. I don’t think I can take it anymore. Do people who kill themselves really go to hell?”
Ask - Jose, are you thinking about ending your life? Do you have a plan to hurt yourself?
Care - Jose, I'm so sorry. I didn't realise you were in so much pain? Can you tell me more about how you are feeling? Listen carefully and testify of Jesus Christ and His atonement.
Tell - Thank you for trusting me, Jose. Your life is precious to me. It is important you receive support. I encourage you to speak with your Bishop as soon as possible. I can make the call for you.
Scenario:
When class is over, you look down at your scriptures and notice there is a note sitting on top of them. You open the note and read the following: “I’m sorry to bug you with this. Just wanted to say thank you and good-bye. I know everyone will be better off without me. Thanks for caring.” -Natalia
You find her about to leave the building. What do you do next?
Please practice your ACT response and think how you would respond to Natalia