Glimmers of hope as Western Alaska school goes three years without suicide

June 13, 2014

News Type:  Weekly Spark, Weekly Spark News

The Alaska Dispatch

After three suicides among students at a small school in Western Alaska a few years ago, the school district took steps to establish a strong anti-suicide approach. Many in the area are now cautiously hopeful that the changes are having a good effect. Rather than focusing only on a single intervention, the community has built in several elements, including a school counselor, teaching resources, municipal engagement, and a peer training program for young people. Through the Natural Helpers program, students learn to identify signs of emotional distress in other teens, talk with them about how they are doing, and refer them to appropriate resources. Laraine Adams, director of the district’s Special Services for the Lower Yukon School District, noted that there is now a district-wide emphasis on positive acknowledgment, celebrating student accomplishments and focusing on both physical and emotional wellness.