In Littleton Public Schools, we believe that suicide prevention is everyone’s business. Suicide Prevention Month serves as a crucial reminder for the significance of addressing mental health challenges and preventing tragic loss of life. It provides a platform for raising awareness, fostering open conversations, and increasing help-seeking behavior. Through education, support, and outreach efforts we can make a positive impact on individuals’ well-being and create a more compassionate and understanding community.

EDUCATION:

• 988 Crisis Line - Last year, the new national suicide and crisis lifeline was developed as a resource for people who are struggling and need to share their feelings. Learn more about this 24/7 resource on the 988 Crisis Line website.
• QPR Training - Just as people trained in CPR help save thousands of lives each year, people trained in QPR have the potential to save lives as well. In this class you will learn: how to recognize warning signs of a suicide crisis, how to ask someone directly if they are feeling suicidal, and how to refer someone to appropriate help. Locations offering this training are:
  • Cherry Hills Community Church, at the Dixon Chapel, from 1-3 pm on Sept. 17th, Oct. 8th, and Nov. 5th
  • Jeffco Virtual Training: Our partners in Jefferson County Schools are offering a free online version of the QPR training for anyone interested.
• LivingWorks START Suicide Prevention Training - a self-paced, online suicide prevention training program designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize the signs of suicide and intervene appropriately. This training equips participants with practical tools to engage with someone in crisis and intervene appropriately. Paid for by generous donations to the LPS Foundation, taking the START training can play a vital role in preventing suicide and saving lives. Register to help keep our community safe.

ACTIVITIES:

• The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is a non-profit organization that provides statistics and information, has volunteer opportunities, advocates with legislators, and connects suicide loss survivors.
  • October 14th - Denver Metro, Out of the Darkness Walk
  • Elevate Hope - Out of the Darkness Walk Team*
• The 2023 LPS Foundation STRIDE: Not only is the STRIDE 5k and 10k Run/Walk on October 29th, a fun and healthy community event, but money raised by the LPS Foundation also contributes to our district mental health efforts and helps those who need more support.
• The Second Wind Fund Walk/Run - Sept. 24th. This annual walk/run is an important day of hope, love, and remembrance. Funds raised from this event will provide access to life saving therapy for Colorado youth who need our support.
• NoSo November - a tremendous one month detox and educational program that encourages young people to learn about the impact that social media can have on our mental health and lives.