Dear JTHS Families, 

Recognizing when our loved ones are struggling with emotional pain and helping them feel comfortable to talk about it can help prevent a mental health crisis, including suicide. This week in advisory, students were presented with information as part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Topics covered included an overview of the social-emotional support available at school, depression, suicide education and awareness, positive coping strategies, and ways to reach out for help.  

Please take three minutes to watch this video for tips and suggestions on recognizing and responding to the warning signs of depression and suicide. In addition, Erika’s Lighthouse has a helpful website with resources for families in English and Spanish. If your child is having suicidal thoughts or actively having a mental health crisis, please do not wait. Call 911 or visit your local emergency room for a mental health assessment. Additional information on navigating a mental health crisis with a loved one can be found in this guide provided by the National Alliance on Mental Illness.  

If you are concerned about your child, but your child is not in crisis, please fill out a Request for Support Form for your child’s PPS team to connect with your family to discuss additional supports available within the building and community. 

Additional Resources Are Below:

·       Dial 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

·       Text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line

·       Contact Safe2Help Illinois: Dial 844-4-SAFEIL, Text SAFE2 (72332), email HELP@Safe2HelpIL.com  

·       If you or a family member are looking for help with mental health, substance use, or marital issues, Care Solace can help you quickly find treatment options matched to your needs regardless of the circumstance.

·       Through a partnership with the Joliet Fire Department, the City of Joliet, and the use of district ESSER relief funds, JTHS students and families can access free mental health services through Thriveworks.

·       Contact a staff member or trusted adult.  View the staff directory HERE, email info@jths.org, or complete the Contact Us form on the website.

·       Report concerns anonymously to the School Violence Tip Line at 1-800-477-0024.

·       Report bullying through the Bullying Report Form.