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Madison Metropolitan School District

5 to Thrive: Recognize Warning Signs to Support Student Mental Health and Well-Being

5 to Thrive: Recognize Warning Signs to Support Student Mental Health and Well-Being

In MMSD, we aim to connect students and families with mental health resources while fostering a sense of care and community support. Learn how you can support the young people in your life by recognizing warning signs of suicidal thoughts or self-harm. The impact of this issue extends throughout our community, affecting us all.

In case you weren't aware, September was National Suicide Prevention Month. If you or someone you know is experiencing hopelessness and suicidal thoughts, support resources are available.

Resources

  • MMSD: Visit our MMSD mental health & well-being website. Here you can find dedicated sections for staff, students, families and school wellness. 
  • 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: A nationwide lifeline network operating 24/7 to provide free and confidential crisis services. Call, text, or chat “988” to connect to a trained counselor;  24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or loved ones. Chat service and other information: Go to National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741;  Other information: Go to www.crisistextline.org
  • Trevor Project: Provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13–24. Text “START” to 678-678 or Call the Lifeline: 1-866-488-7386. TrevorChat and other information and resources: Go to thetrevorproject.org
  • Journey Mental Health: If you are in crisis or need help dealing with one, call to speak with a trained professional. Call the Emergency Line: 608-280-2600
     

Warning Signs

The first step in getting help is knowing the warning signs of someone who might be thinking about suicide. Signs can appear in different ways.

Behavioral Signs

  • Withdrawing from friends and activities
  • Giving away personal belongings
  • Engaging in risky behaviors
  • Using more drugs or alcohol
  • Sudden mood changes, like feeling better after being sad
     

Verbal Signs

  • Talking about feeling hopeless or worthless
  • Saying things like "I can't take it anymore" or "I wish I weren't here"
  • Mentioning plans or ways to end their life
     

Emotional Signs

  • Big mood swings
  • Feeling very sad or empty
  • Losing interest in things they used to enjoy
  • Becoming very irritable or angry
     

Situational Signs

  • Recently losing someone close
  • Going through a breakup
  • Facing bullying or harassment
  • Dealing with school or work stress
  • Experiencing financial problems or other crises
     

Physical Signs

  • Changes in sleep (like not sleeping or sleeping too much)
  • Changes in eating habits or weight
  • Neglecting personal hygiene
     

Social Signs

  • Spending more time alone
  • Losing interest in socializing
  • Feeling disconnected from friends and family
     

Cognitive Signs

  • Trouble concentrating or making decisions
  • Constantly thinking about death or dying
  • Feeling intense guilt or shame
     

If you notice these warning signs, here’s what you can do

  • Start a conversation about how they’re feeling.
  • Listen actively and support them without judging.
  • Encourage them to seek help from a therapist, counselor, or hotline.
  • Involve trusted adults, like parents, teachers, or coaches.
     

About 5 to Thrive and MMSD:

At MMSD, we're committed to nurturing the mental health and well-being of our students and school staff. Our approach is guided by 5 to Thrive: Learning, Caring, Belonging, Connecting, and Thriving. From prioritizing student well-being to fostering genuine connections within our school community, we strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to learn. If you or someone you know needs support, we're here to help.

Get Support:

  • Browse our website for resources

  • Talk to a teacher or school staff member, or visit your school health office

  • Call Care Solace at 888-515-0595

  • Call the Dane County Behavioral Health Resource Center at 608-267-2244

  • Call or text the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988

  • If you are in immediate danger, call 911