Suicide Prevention Education
The Suicide Prevention Education Program partners with local schools and youth organizations to present an engaging, evidence-based curriculum that teaches middle and high school students how to identify the signs and symptoms of suicide and depression and what they can do to get help. The curriculum used is Signs of Suicide (SOS), developed by Screening for Mental Health, Inc. It is listed on SAMSHA’S National Registry of evidence-based programs and practices for high school, while the middle school program is considered best practice. Students are taught that suicide is not a normal response to stress, but is a preventable tragedy that can be a result of untreated depression. An easy-to-remember acronym, ACT (Acknowledge, Care, Tell), equips students with steps they can take if they require help for themselves or friends. Mental Health America of Fredericksburg (MHAfred) can work with schools and youth organizations in Virginia Planning District 16 (Fredericksburg, Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford). If you would like more information about how to bring this program to your school or your community, contact our Suicide Prevention Education Coordinator below.
Teen Council
The Mental Health America of Fredericksburg (MHAfred) Teen Council actively works towards spreading awareness and reducing stigma surrounding mental health in our schools and community. Our focus is to educate, raise awareness and give teens a voice. It is open to teens currently enrolled in a high school program in Planning District 16 (Fredericksburg, Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford). All volunteer hours count towards official community service activity.
The Teen Council is currently suspended due to the pandemic. For more information, contact our Suicide Prevention Education Coordinator below.
Related Blogs
Mental Health: The top public health issue in our region
MHAfred and some of our local partners are working together to address the mental health crisis in our region. Click here to read the recent article in the Free Lance Star about our role in the Community Health Improvement Plan.
The crisis of student mental health is much vaster than we realize
"Nationally, adolescent depression and anxiety — already at crisis levels before the pandemic — have surged amid the isolation, disruption and hardship of covid-19." Check out the recent article from The Washington Post.
Amid barbershop chairs, counselor focuses on mental health
Gary Taylor, licensed clinical social worker in Caroline County, is getting creative about reaching community members and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Check out the recent article in the Free Lance Star.