September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time for communities to come together to raise awareness and support mental health. According to the Oregon Health Authority, nearly 1,000 Oregonians lost their lives to suicide in 2022, a rate higher than the national average. Brookings-Harbor School District is committed to promoting awareness, reducing stigma, and helping students and staff recognize when someone may need help.
Know the Risk Factors and Warning Signs
Suicide can affect anyone, but certain factors increase risk—such as mental health challenges, substance use, trauma, bullying, or social isolation.
Warning signs may include withdrawal from friends and activities, sudden mood changes, hopeless statements, or talking about death.
How to Help
If you believe someone may be at risk:
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Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide.
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Listen with empathy and without judgment.
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Stay with them if they are in immediate danger.
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Connect them to help—call or text 988 for 24/7 confidential support.
Building Awareness at BHSD
Brookings-Harbor School District has participated in QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training with both staff and high school students to help build a supportive, responsive school community.
By learning to recognize the signs and reach out with care, we can all play a role in saving lives and promoting hope.
Resources
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988
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SAMHSA Suicide Prevention Resources: samhsa.gov
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Oregon Alliance to Prevent Suicide: oregonalliancetopreventsuicide.org
- Additional Local Crisis Line information: brookings.k12.or.us/apps/pages/crisis