Sunday, December 5, 2010

Recommendation: A National Curriculum

Currently, teen suicide prevention resources are fragmented. There are numerous programs with varying levels of resources and commitment. We feel that a national strategy might present an effective, concerted, and cost effective means to help prevent teen suicide.

The State of Wisconsin has a well-developed curriculum that can serve as a model for further development. The curriculum includes programs for Grades 6-8 and 8-10.

Contents of the program include materials to help educators:

  1. Develop awareness of student issues.
  2. Systematically deliver the knowledge and skills presented in the curriculum
  3. Develop parental support and awareness
  4. Address cultural differences in development of depression and/or suicidal behaviors
  5. Understand suicide risk and related substance abuse risks
  6. Develop teams and community approaches to address and identify issues

The Wisconsin program can be reviewed at http://dpi.state.wi.us/sspw/suicideprevcurriculum.html

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