September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, break down stigma, and remind one another that help is always available. In Arlington ISD, this is more than an observance. It’s a significant part of the work that our schools, families, and students do together, every day, to make sure every child feels seen, valued, and supported.
It’s not just the adults in Arlington ISD who know how important this topic is. Students do, too. And students like Brooklyn Heizer at Gunn Junior High are doing everything they can to support each other.
Brooklyn knows personally the challenges that many kids face, from school pressure to peer pressure.
“Most people don’t know the true things that go through a person’s head,” Brooklyn said. “It can be feelings of emptiness, feeling like nobody cares, thinking that nobody would care if they were gone, and many more things that go through their heads.”
But Brooklyn believes that together, with other students and school staff, we can make a big difference.
“There are way too many suicides each year by teens, and if Gunn and the school district can make those students feel seen, cared about, and acknowledge that people truly care about them, that can make a huge impact on these kids’ lives.”
The work of supporting students is something everyone can be a part of. Telisa Brown, Arlington ISD’s director of guidance and counseling, has several practical suggestions for helping students navigate mental health challenges:
› Connection Matters
Sometimes the most important thing we can do for a child is simply notice, listen, and let them know they are not alone. We want every student to have trusted adults in their lives they can turn to when they are struggling and need support.
› Know the Signs and Speak Up
Parents and staff do not have to be experts to make a difference. If you notice significant changes in a child’s behavior, mood, relationships, or sense of hope, don’t hesitate to check in and ask how they are doing. When something doesn’t feel right, say something. Seek help.
› We Are Stronger When We Work Together
Suicide prevention is a shared responsibility. Our schools are committed to creating safe, supportive environments and connecting students and families with the resources they need. When schools, families, and our community work together, we can help students feel supported, valued, and hopeful about their future.
Hope Squads: Students Supporting Students
Many schools across Arlington ISD have established Hope Squad programs that empower students to promote hope, connection, and belonging. Trained Hope Squad members look out for peers who may be struggling, encourage them to seek help, and connect them with trusted adults. Hope Squad students serve as supportive peers who help create a school culture where every student feels seen, valued, and supported. Learn more about Hope Squads.
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress, a mental health crisis, or thoughts of suicide, help is available 24/7:
› 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org
The Lifeline is free, confidential, and available around the clock for anyone who needs support – no matter how big or small the struggle may feel.
› Arlington ISD Student Therapeutic Counseling Service
All Arlington ISD students have access to dedicated therapy services through The Care Clinic and Texas Child Health Access Through Telemedicine (TCHATT). Students, pre-K through 12, have the opportunity through these services to learn and grow through counseling. Students engage in up to five brief counseling sessions with licensed therapists. Students will identify self-awareness, self-management, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making skills through therapeutic goal setting to be applied in everyday settings.
The referral process is initiated by the school counselor or campus Student Outreach Services personnel with parent/guardian consent for services. Please reach out to your campus for a referral.
› Tarrant Cares
Tarrant Cares is a community resource website that helps Tarrant County residents find local services and support in one place. Families can search for resources based on their location, population, and specific needs, such as mental health, housing, food assistance, healthcare, family support, and other community services.