SOS Signs of Suicide® programs are depression awareness and suicide prevention programs that can be implemented in one or more classroom periods. The SOS programs can also be used in alternative settings serving youth such as social clubs, after school programs and juvenile justice systems.
The main teaching tool of the SOS program is a video that teaches youth how to identify symptoms of depression and suicidality in themselves or their friends, and to respond effectively by seeking help from a trusted adult.
The programs’ primary objectives are to educate youth that depression is a treatable illness and to equip them to respond to potential suicide risk in a friend or family member using the SOS technique. SOS is an action-oriented approach instructing students how to ACT (Acknowledge, Care and Tell) in the face of a mental health emergency. The SOS programs also provide education materials for youth, parents, and school staff.
For more information, you can visit: www.mentalhealthscreening.org
To schedule an SOS program for your classroom or group, please contact us at (309) 692-1766 or mhaiv@mhaiv.org
