b'Youth Warning Signs and What to Do in a CrisisWhen you are concerned that a person may be suicidal, look for changes in behavior or the presence of entirely new behaviors. This is of greatest concern if the new or changed behavior is related to a painful event, loss, or change, such as losing a friend or classmate to suicide. Most people who take their lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do.Take any threat or talk about suicide seriously. Start by telling the person that you are concerned. Dont be afraid to ask whether they are considering suicide or has a plan or method in mind. Research shows that asking someone directly about suicide will not put the idea in their head. Rather, the person in distress will often feel relieved that someone cares enough to talk about this issue with them. Below is a list of warning signs and steps to take specifically for youth. It was developed by a consensus panel of experts in the field. See www.youthsuicidewarningsigns.org.Youth Warning Signs What to DoLeaders in the suicide prevention field agree thatIf you notice any of these signs in a student, take these the following warning signs indicate a youngrecommended steps right away:person may be at risk for suicide:1. Do not leave the student alone and unsupervised. Make sure the student is Talking about or making plans for suicide in a secure environment supervised by caring adults until they can be seen by the school mental health contact.Expressing hopelessness about the future2. Make sure the student is escorted to the schools mental health Displaying severe/overwhelming emotionalprofessional.pain or distress3. Provide any additional information to the schools mental health contact that will assist with the assessment of the student.What to DoShowing worrisome behavioral cues or marked1. Ask if the student is okay or if they are having thoughts of suicide.changes in behavior, particularly in the presence of the warning signs above. Specifically, this2. Express your concern about what you are observing in their behavior.includes significant:3. Listen attentively and nonjudgmentally.Withdrawal from or change in social connections or situations 4. Reflect what the student shares and let the student know they have been heard.Changes in sleep (increased or decreased)5. Tell the student that they are not alone.Anger or hostility that seems out of character or out of context 6. Let the student know there are treatments available that can help.Recent increased agitation or irritability 7. If you or the student are concerned, guide them to additional professional help, or to call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a 24-hour toll-free phone line for people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress: call or text 988.After a Suicide: A Toolkit for Schools|63'