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Counselor News

 

If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please use the Suicide Prevention Hotline https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/  or toll free number 1-800-273-8255  to get help for you or a friend.

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If it is an emergency with someone potentially in imminent danger, call 911 for immediate help. They have specially trained mental health officers who will respond and assess. They can contact AISD police to get specific information about AISD students like contact information that you may not know, to help find and help the person in question.

 

Another very helpful resource is MCOT (mobile crisis outreach team) also called Integral Care. Put their number in your phone for quick access 24/7 512-472-4357. They are prepared to dispatch mental health counselors to your home should you need help in a mental health crisis. You can also text TX to 741741 to connect to their Crisis Text Line for 24/7 crisis support via text.

 

DO NOT leave a voicemail or send an email about a mental health crisis - contact the above resources right away for immediate care, then let us know so we can follow up and continue to support your student with their mental health recovery and connect you with other outside services as needed.

Dear Austin ISD families - 

Schools have an important role in preventing youth suicide, and being aware of potential risk factors is vital. We would like to ask you to partner with AISD to help students in need. You can make a world of difference by following these three simple steps:
Know the warning signs of suicidal ideation:
• Talking or joking about suicide.
• Seeking out weapons, pills or other ways to die.
• Making statements about feeling hopeless, helpless or worthless.
• Writing social media posts about death, dying or suicide.
• Giving away prized possessions.
• Saying goodbye to friends and family as if for good.
• Changes in behavior can also be a warning sign:
o Changes in school attendance or grades.
o Changes in eating and sleeping habits.
o Increased use of alcohol and/or drugs.
o Change in friendships, or withdrawing from friends and social activities.
o Mood swings or personality changes.
o Loss of interest in activities.
o Bullying (both the victim of bullying and the bully are at risk.)

Talk to your children:
• Let your children know you care.
• Do not be afraid to ask your children if they have or are thinking about suicide.

Seek help:
• If it is an emergency, call 911.
• Contact your child’s pediatrician or doctor.
• Contact a local mental health provider—Integral Care at 512-472-HELP (4357), the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text “HELLO” to 741741.
• Notify your child’s campus administrator and counselor.
Attached (Mental Health Resources) you will find information on resources available for anyone struggling with mental health issues, including help for anyone who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s school counselor for help.

We care deeply about the well-being of all our students and we know that you care about the well-being of your child. By working together, we can make a difference for all students at AISD. Thank for your support.
Sincerely, 
AISD Counseling Office