This episode discusses suicide prevention in schools and the need for effective education and support for young people. The conversation covers current suicide prevention efforts, the importance of early intervention, and the challenges faced by teachers in discussing sensitive topics. The three dads share their personal experiences and their work in policy advocacy. The episode also highlights ongoing research and collaboration in the field. Resources and support for those affected by suicide are provided.

Takeaways

• Suicide prevention in schools is crucial, as schools provide a universal access point for most children and young people.

• Teachers often feel unequipped to talk about suicide prevention, and there is a fear that discussing suicide may increase the risk. However, research shows that talking about suicide does not increase the risk and can actually help young people feel better.

• The implementation of suicide prevention in the school curriculum should be done in a safe and controlled manner, with appropriate training and support for teachers.

• Early intervention and life skills education are essential in addressing mental health issues and building resilience in young people.

• Ongoing research, collaboration, and policy advocacy are necessary to improve suicide prevention efforts in schools and support bereaved parents.

Help & Support

If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support:

• Papyrus Prevention of Young Suicide: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/ or call 0800 068 4141

• Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org/ or call call 116 123

• Liverpool CAMHS: https://www.liverpoolcamhs.com/ or call 0151 293 3577

• Liverpool Crisis Line: https://www.merseycare.nhs.uk/urgent-help or call 0800 145 6570

• 3 Dads Walking: https://www.3dadswalking.uk/

• BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/

Credits

"Mindful Merseyside" is brought to you by the Institute for Health Research at Liverpool John Moores University.

Guest Series Presenter: Gemma Cutting. Produced and distributed by Innobella Media.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:18 Guest Introductions and Personal Connections

06:07 Current Suicide Prevention Efforts in the Region

09:13 National Suicide Prevention Efforts

12:06 Research on Suicide Prevention in Schools

14:01 Three Dads' Policy Work and Campaigning

19:16 Importance of Training and Support for Teachers

23:48 The Need for Early Intervention and Life Skills Education

26:06 Implementation and Timing of Suicide Prevention in the Curriculum

30:20 Ongoing Research and Collaboration

34:30 Future Plans and Support for Bereaved Parents

39:33 Conclusion and Resources