b'Suicide Contagion Key ConsiderationsContagion is the process by which one suicide death may contribute to another. Although contagion is relatively rare (accounting for between 1 and 5 percent of all youth suicide deaths annually), adolescents and teenagers appear to be more susceptible to imitative suicide than adults, largely because they may identify more readily with the behavior and qualities of their peers. It is also important to recognize the impact of highly publicized suicide deaths, such as those of celebrities, which may contribute to contagion.If there appears to be contagion, schools should consider taking additional steps beyond the basic crisis response outlined in this toolkit to avoid suicidal behavior and deaths. It is advisable for schools to increase efforts to identify other students who may be at heightened risk of suicide, actively collaborate with community partners in a coordinated suicide prevention effort, and possibly bring in outside experts.Identifying Other Students at Possible Risk for SuicideIn the face of potential contagion, it is important for schools to use mental health professionals and others who have been trained to identify students who may be at heightened risk for suicide due to underlying mental disorders or behavioral problems (e.g., depression, anxiety, conduct disorder, and/or substance abuse) or who have been exposed to the prior suicide either directly (by witnessing the suicide or by close identification or relationship with the deceased) or indirectly (by extensive media coverage).Of special concern are those students who:Have a history of suicide attemptsHave a history of depression, trauma, or lossAre dealing with stressful life events, such as a death or divorce in the familyWere eyewitnesses to the deathAre family members or close friends of the deceased (including siblings at other schools as well as teammates,classmates, significant others, and acquaintances of the deceased)Received a phone call, text, or other communication from the deceased foretelling the suicide and possiblyfeel guilty about having missed the warning signsHad a last very negative interaction with the deceasedMay have fought with or bullied the deceasedSchools can also seek to identify those in the general student body who may be at heightened risk by using a mental health screening tool. It is advised that schools consult with mental health professionals on appropriate strategies for screening and assessment. After a Suicide: A Toolkit for Schools|38'