As we approach the winter break, we want to be sure our families know there is help available 24 hours a day, seven days a week if a student is in crisis.
If a friend or family member hears direct warning signs like, “I’ve decided to kill myself,” “I wish I were dead,” “I’m going to end it all,” or “If this doesn’t happen, I’ll kill myself.” The most important thing to do is call 911 for emergency help.
If there are indirect warning signs like, “I’m tired of life; I just can’t go on,” or “my family would be better off without me,” you should contact local police non-emergency lines or the Safe Schools Helpline.
The Safe Schools Helpline is a free and confidential option for our students to report threats of violence, illegal activity, or any activity they think can harm students or staff in our schools. There is a toll-free number students can call or a number they can text or a web page where they can report their concerns and talk to a trained mental health counselor.
During the school year, we utilize The Hope Squad program. This is a school-based peer support team that partners with local mental health agencies. Peers select students who are trustworthy and caring individuals to join the Hope Squad. Squad members are trained to watch for at-risk students, provide friendship, identify suicide-warning signs, and seek help from adults. The Hope Squad students know who to contact when they see a peer in crisis.
Non-Emergency Police Safe Schools Hotline
Hilliard PD – 614-876-7321 800-4-1-VOICE ext. 359
Dublin PD – 614-889-1112 800-418-6423 ext. 359
Columbus PD – 614-645-4545 Text TIPS to 66746
