YRDSB is committed to student well-being and mental health. YRDSB has developed a Student Suicide Intervention Protocol to help keep students safe in the event of suicidal thoughts or actions. Youth suicide is a complex, emotionally-charged and sadly real problem in Canada. It is the second leading cause of death amongst young people. It’s important to recognize that those who struggle with mental health have personal strength and resilience and the potential to overcome difficulties to ultimately thrive.
YRDSBs Student Suicide Intervention Protocol is designed to address the six steps involved when responding to current and present thoughts of suicide, as well as actions related to suicide. In addition, the Protocol is governed by a set of guiding principles which are underpinned by a culturally responsive and reflective practice.
Suicide is not culturally neutral. Our cultural and ethnic backgrounds will inform how each of us understands suicide. To see the guiding principles, read the Student Suicide Intervention Protocol on the board website, or request a copy through the school office.
Given the urgent need to help keep students safe from suicide, each school has access to board staff trained in suicide intervention. In the urgent situation of suicide intervention, staff trained in suicide intervention do not require parental/guardian consent to intervene. We do make every effort to contact parents/guardians to apprise you of your child’s situation and the assistance provided. Parents/guardians are an integral part of keeping their children safe. In the event that the intervention protocol is used, a record of the intervention will be shared with you (student consent to share information is required for those over the age of 18 years) and a copy will be created and stored in a private and confidential on-line records management system. In accordance with privacy and health records legislation, a copy will be retained for one year plus a day following the intervention. As per the protocol parental/guardian (student if 18 or over) consent will be sought to share the intervention plan with those identified in the record. If you have any questions about the Student Suicide Intervention Protocol please contact your school principal.