Counselors' Corner
Suicide Prevention/Awareness Day
Common Myths
“People who talk about suicide won’t really do it.”
False: Almost everyone who attempts or completes suicide has given warning signs through their words or behaviors. Do not ignore any suicide threats. Statements like “You’ll be sorry when I’m dead” or “I wish I was dead” — no matter how casually or jokingly said — may indicate serious suicidal feelings.
“If a person is determined to kill him/herself, nothing is going to stop him/her.”
False: Even the most severely depressed person has mixed feelings about death, wavering until the very last moment between wanting to live and wanting to die. Most suicidal people do not want to die; they want the pain to stop. The impulse to end their life, however overpowering, does not last forever.
“Talking about suicide may give someone the idea.”
False: You do not give a person ideas about suicide by talking about it. The opposite is true. If a person is depressed or unhappy, discussing their feelings openly and allowing them to express how they feel is one of the most helpful things you can do. Even if they have had suicidal thoughts, giving them permission to express those thoughts can relieve some of the anxiety and provide an avenue to recognize other ways to escape their pain and sadness.
“People who attempt suicide and do not complete suicide are just trying to get attention and are not really serious.”
False: To a certain degree, they are trying to get attention and help for the pain that they are experiencing. A suicide attempt, even half-hearted, is an attempt to seek help. If the person perceives their action to be a suicide attempt, then that is what it is. Any attempt, regardless of severity, must be taken seriously and help must be sought for the individual.
Seeking Donations
Mary Orr Intermediate School serves over 600 fifth and sixth grade students. The needs and backgrounds of these students are extremely diverse. We have developed an incentive program that rewards students for excellence in academics and citizenship called Tiger Stripes. This program has proven to be very successful and encourages students to contribute to our school and community in many positive ways. The success of this program has been aided tremendously by the support of area businesses.
This student incentive program allows students to earn a form of money that can be used to purchase a variety of items, both within and outside of the school. Real world skills are developed as students learn to use a register to record deposits and withdrawals. The incentive program allows teachers, parents, and other staff members to reinforce positive behavior in students who are in need of extra encouragement.
The last year has been very challenging for our students, families, and businesses. However, we know that our children are our future. It is my hope that you will help us recognize those students who are working to achieve and excel in our public schools. We are soliciting your donation of services, gift certificates, tickets, and/or merchandise. We would welcome your support if you or your business can participate. Thank you in advance for your consideration of our incentive program.
Mary Orr Intermediate
Email: kynaeastlick@misdmail.org
Website: https://orr.mansfieldisd.org/
Location: 2900 East Broad Street, Mansfield, TX, USA
Phone: 817-299-2600
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/708846982504249