Every school year, Rancho Cucamonga High School recognizes Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide Prevention Month takes place in September. Although this 2020-2021 school year is progressing through distance learning, it is still important to spread awareness as much as possible.

Suicide Prevention Month is a focus that draws attention to suicide awareness and advocates for the prevention of this tragedy. Suicide is a national health issue that claims the lives of many people throughout the world. This month focuses on raising awareness about suicide prevention, encouraging people to check on others, and motivating those in need to seek out help. Suicide Prevention Month is a time to share stories, highlight the positives within suicide prevention organizations, remember those affected by it, and focus on the ones in need of help.

According to the Jasonfoundation, a suicide prevention organization, suicide is a health problem that currently ranks as the second leading cause of death for ages 10-34. According to this organization, suicide is also one of the leading causes of preventable death.

On our campus, we have access to adults who can help students struggling with suicide. Our counselors on campus got together to speak on the importance of suicide and Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide means many different things to many different people, but according to the RCHS counselors, “Suicide means saving lives. It means making sure our students know they are not alone, understand that we are there for them, and that we truly want them to be safe & get them the help they need.”

According to the RCHS counselors, students, teachers, and anyone who can reach out to students who are depressed, stressed, or thinking of suicide to provide them with the correct help needed. They want to help and support all students, so they will see that things get better. The RCHS counselors want all students to know that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. It is important to know that suicide can be prevented!

When it comes to preventing suicide in student lives, the RCHS counselors are here Rancho for students and can connect with students to be able to give the appropriate support that might be needed. RCHS counselors can do things like refer students to therapists on campus or connect them with outside agencies that our school has partnered within the community. 

The RCHS counselors are available via phone, email, and Canvas to listen, help, and keep everyone safe! 

During Suicide Prevention Month, RCHS has wristbands with the Suicide Hotline number as well as cards with this information. According to the RCHS counselors, students and families can pick those up anytime they come to school (when they pick up textbooks, lunch, and Chromebooks). They are available in the front office. Throughout distance learning Suicide Prevention Month, RCHS will post support information and resources on our school website, canvas, and social media.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please call 9-11 or the suicide prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255. You can also visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on their website.