
We Choose Wellness
Arkansas Arts Academy High School Wellness Newsletter
Call 911, if danger is imminent
Call or text 988 to talk to a mental health professional
Ask the person if they are thinking of killing themselves. Research shows that people answer this question honestly
Listen without judging and show that you care
Do not leave the person alone
Remove any objects that could be used for harm
Follow the guidance of professionals
How to help support suicide prevention efforts in your community
All of society can play a role in preventing suicide. We know more and more about what works. Strategies like reducing access to lethal means, such as firearms; identifying and assisting those at risk; and promoting connectedness have shown effectiveness in reducing suicide rates.
- Educate Yourself: Learn the warning signs of suicide and how to help someone in distress. Knowledge truly is power.
- Reach Out: If you know someone struggling, be there for them and offer a listening ear. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares can make all the difference.
- Share Resources: Spread the word about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and other supports. Sharing information on social media or within your community can direct people to the help they need.
- Promote Compassion: Foster empathy and understanding in your home, work, and community. Judgment-free spaces enable those struggling to seek help without fear of stigma.
- Support Initiatives: Volunteer with mental health organizations, participate in local events or even donate if you’re able. Your time and contributions can aid in saving lives.
Positive and supportive social relationships and community connections can help buffer the effects of risk factors in people’s lives
Take Action
- Support the development of relationships between youth and positive adults in their lives
- Help build positive attachments between families and organizations in the community
- Create and sustain peer-delivered services and support groups.
- Implement activities in educational institutions that help students increase and strengthen their social networks and connections.
PARENT RESOURCES
Suicide is a real risk for our youth, it remains the second leading cause of death for youth age 10-24 in the United States. It is very important for you to know that suicide isn’t about bad parenting! One of the simplest and most accurate definitions of suicide states that it is an alternative solution to a problem of intense emotional distress by someone whose problem-solving skills are impaired. There may be many reasons for the impairment, and being compromised mentally or emotionally is usually at the top of the list. Possibly more helpful to you right now than understanding the causes of suicide is outlining steps that may help you recognize if your child may be at risk – and what you can do about it.
"Say Hello" Week is September 18th-22nd
Monday: Make Someone Smile Monday
Tuesday: Talk About It Tuesday: start a conversation with someone new
Wednesday: Welcome Wednesday: wear green and start the day with hello
Thursday: Tell someone hello in a different language
Friday: Find a New Friend Friday: spend some time with someone outside your regular friend group
Community Partner Spotlight!
Light House Solutions is a local nonprofit organization helping to improve the quality of life for children, teens, and their families living in under-served and marginalized communities of Northwest Arkansas. They believe all children should have an equal opportunity at health and well-being therefore, they're working to make that vision a reality. By pioneering innovative programs, Light House Solutions makes an immediate difference in children's lives while transforming the future. They are a vital part of the public and without Light House Solutions being woven into the fabric of the communities, they would not have supported over 80,000 people since 2011.
On Monday, August 14th, Light House Solutions presented at the elementary and the high school campus. The Emotional Wellness Initiative was presented at the elementary campus. This is their Youth Arts & Recreation program called Accelerated Achievers. The Empowerment Initiative was presented at the high school campus.This is their Talent Mapping Through The Arts program.
On Tuesday, August 15th, Light House Solutions presented The L.I.F.E. Cycle Project at the high school campus. This is their Hygiene Care program under the Personal Wellness Initiative. The L.I.F.E. Cycle Project Living in Front of "Everything With No Fear" empowers, educates, and supports people with periods through the cycle of life.....Period, Hormonal, and Stress Management!
Need to relax? Try Progressive Muscle Relaxation below!
UPCOMING EVENTS at ARKANSAS ARTS ACADEMY!
September 18th-22nd
Say Hello Week
September 19th
Linguistically Diverse Parent Night
September 19th
Applications 101
September 22
C.R.E.A.T.E. Change with Arisa Health
September 28th
Community Service Information Night
September 29th
Parent Teacher/Conferences