High School Students Work for Suicide Prevention Awareness

Mental health and suicide are often difficult but essential topics to discuss. With September being National Suicide Prevention Awareness month, two La Grange High School students decided to help their fellow students better understand how to handle these difficult situations, using a combination of education, humor and a little competition.

“While it is a sensitive discussion for some, it is a common struggle that most individuals will be faced with at some time in their life,” explained senior Lily Nygren, who, alongside fellow senior Missy Muras ran the campaign throughout September in collaboration with the La Grange High School counseling team.

“Everybody knows that people get sad and deal with situations that can have a negative impact, however, making people feel heard, learning warning signs, providing tips on how to reach out, and putting positivity into the school community is essential,” Nygren said.

To tie in with National Suicide Prevention Awareness month in September, the seniors approached the school’s Student Council sponsor, Mrs. Carey, who helped put the students’ ideas into action, alongside the school counselors.

During the month, the Student Council placed posters and positive messages around school, read announcements and held a “penny war” which collected over $1,500 to donate to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - Texas Chapter.

The results have been encouraging and the seniors plan to keep raising awareness on this important topic all year long. “While the project we have taken on may not seem like a big deal, it has opened up opportunities for students to connect and have real conversations with each other, let others feel that they are not alone, and promote the importance of being kind,” Nygren said.

“We hope that students will take the bits of information and positivity that we shared over the month of September and continue to be there for others at home, in the community, and in their future.”