Suicide Prevention Newsletter
September 2026
September is Suicide Prevention Month
Each September, we share this newsletter to spotlight Cypress-Fairbanks ISD’s efforts to prevent and respond to suicide risk among children and adolescents, while providing resources and strategies to help families and community members support youth well-being.
Inside this edition, you’ll find:
An overview of CFISD’s suicide prevention initiatives.
Practical steps you can take to help protect youth from suicide.
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD acknowledges that suicide remains the second leading cause of death among school-age youth, and we are committed to working hand-in-hand with families, community partners, and local, state, and national agencies to prevent youth suicide.
District specialists in suicide prevention continually review current research, best-practice strategies, and state and federal requirements to guide effective prevention efforts.
On every campus, CFISD’s suicide prevention program is implemented through a multi-tiered, team-based framework designed to protect and support students.
How Does CFISD Work to Prevent Suicide in the Schools?
District and School Staff Who May Support My Child During a Suicide Risk Screening or Intervention
CFISD Suicide Prevention Program uses a multi-tiered, team-based approach to protect student safety.
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is committed to the safety and well-being of every student. In accordance with Chapter 26A of the Texas Education Code, this law requires school districts to provide parents/guardians the option to opt out of health-related services, which would include self-harm screeners administered by trained and qualified staff.
How Can Parents and Guardians Help Prevent Suicide?
Suicide can be prevented. While there are times when warning signs are more noticeable, it’s important to remember that children may not always express their struggles openly or directly ask for help. Parents and caregivers play a vital role in recognizing the signs that a child may be in distress.
According to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, the following are warning signs that your child may be at immediate risk:
- talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
looking for a way to kill oneself (for example, searching online to obtain a gun)
talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
If you notice any of the above three warning signs, you should immediately call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or contact a mental health professional.
How Can I Keep My Child Safe at Home?
Keeping children safe at home is a critical step in suicide prevention. For those showing warning signs, increasing monitoring and limiting their access to potentially lethal means are two vital steps to protect them. Below you will find a brief guide to suicide prevention and controlling access to lethal means.
Click here to find the nearest Controlled Substance Public Disposal Location.
About 988, Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
People can call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
988 serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live in the United States, you can reach a caring, trained counselor who can help.
In addition to school support, local, state, and national organizations also provide suicide prevention resources. Click the links below to learn more.
CFISD Mental Health & Wellness Fair
Each year, the district also hosts a Mental Health & Wellness Fair, offering opportunities for families to connect with trusted mental health professionals in the community. This year’s Mental Health & Resource Fair will be held on Wednesday, December 2, 2026, from 3:30 PM–6:30 PM at the Berry Center (event flyer below).
