Mobile app aims to prevent student suicide
The deaths of four students by suicide in Rancho Cucamonga school districts have brought increased attention to the importance of student mental health awareness as many children head back to school.
SafeHouse of the Desert aims to support Coachella Valley youth and teens with its anonymous 24/7 mobile app.
“When they’re experiencing problems in relationships, they have a hard time seeing past that and get stuck emotionally. and if they can’t see past that, then they’re more likely to think about suicide as an option,” said Danielle Gross, clinical supervisor for SafeHouse of the Desert.
Students can directly talk with a trained, licensed counselor by texting 844.204.0880 or downloading the What’sUp? SafeHouse app.
Since 2018 nearly 900 students have used this feature.
The app says “young people who are struggling with drug or alcohol abuse, depression, difficult family situations, bullying and other issues can receive help, while maintaining anonymity. Youth are also encouraged text about any friends they feel may be struggling or are in danger.”
The app also connects with local organizations and resources.
“We are only serving Riverside County, so we are familiar with the culture of Riverside County. We are familiar with the unique struggles that our youth may encounter,” Gross added.
Safehouse says at least 12 lives have been saved in the two years the app has been around.
“To me, that’s really significant because even though its a texting line, we are able to gain some trust from young people, enough to save lives,” Gross said.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Warning signs of suicide:
Talking about wanting to die Looking for a way to kill oneself Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain Talking about being a burden to others Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs Acting anxious, agitated, or recklessly Sleeping too little or too much Withdrawing or feeling isolated Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge Displaying extreme mood swings.
The more of these signs a person shows, the greater the risk. Warning signs are associated with suicide but may not be what causes a suicide.
“The best thing to do is acknowledge that change, hey, I noticed that lately, you’ve been spending more time in your room, can we talk about that,” Gross said.
What to do if someone you know exhibits warning signs of suicide:
Do not leave the person alone Remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt Call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional.
