September Counselor Newsletter
Happy September, Cougars!
We hope you've gotten into the swing of things and are feeling comfortable and happy so far this school year! Remember, you can request to see a counselor using our contact form that is linked below. September is Suicide Awareness month so in this month's newsletter we will include resources for getting help for you or a friend.
Content Warning: This newsletter contains discussions of potentially activating subjects such as suicide and self-harm. If you do not feel comfortable reading about these topics, please feel free to skip that section.
How to See Your Counselor
⏰ OfficeHours - The Counseling Office is open from 7:15 AM - 2:45 PM. Students can come see us before school, during breaks, or during lunch.
🎟️ Class Time: Grab a hall pass or wait for a counselor pass.
💻 Online Request: Submit a referral form to see a counselor here.
🚨 Need Help Right Away? If it's an emergency, tell a teacher, counselor, or trusted adult immediately! Anonymously report anything that concerns or threatens you, your friends, your family, or your community. https://safe2tell.org 1(877) 542-7233. Call or text the Suicide Lifeline - 988
HRHS Tours
Are you interested in learning more about Highlands Ranch High School? HRHS is now offering monthly tours for families to learn about the awesome educational and academic opportunities at HRHS!
Upcoming Events
- September 17 - New Student Breakfast
- October 30 - Trick or Treat Street
Talk About It
As school counselors, we believe the first step in suicide prevention is not being afraid to talk about it. When we candidly discuss difficult thoughts and feelings, we are more easily able to work through and overcome them. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm, speak to a trusted adult right away. Help is available and things can get better.
Warning Signs
Know the risk factors and warning signs of suicide so you know what to look out for:
Sense of hopelessness or no hope for the future
Frequently talking about suicide or death
Negative sense of self
Isolation or feeling alone
Substance use
Aggressiveness or irritability
Engaging in self-harming or risky behaviors
Get Help
Advisement is a daily class all students have in their schedule where they will learn about social/emotional topics, participate in AVID lessons, and also have time on Thursdays and Fridays to complete homework or meet with teachers.
In September Advisement classes, students will set academic goals for the 1st quarter and will learn how to address bullying and make sure everyone at CMS feels safe and respected. Students will also complete a Needs Assessment and will be able to request to participate in a counseling group. Advisement activities are listed below.
- All grades - Fighting labels lesson; Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination lesson; Needs Assessment
- 6th grade - Roles in Bullying; Getting to Know Each Other Game
- 7th grade - Conflict vs. Bullying
- 8th grade - Conflict Resolution Skills; Types of Bullying
