Have you seen the video about the boy in the library who writes a note on the desk? If you haven't, stop now and watch it.
Here is the link.
What did you think? Scary... chilling... overwhelming... For me it was all of these things. But I think most of all, for me, it was a reminder of the fact that people around us may be hurting, scared or thinking about violence and we ALL have a responsibility to try to help them and to help keep our school safe.
So, here are the two most important reminders...
- If you hear someone making a threat or someone writing a threat, report it to an adult. (See something or hear something then SAY something!)
- Remember that one warning sign may not mean that something is wrong, but if it doesn't feel right, then it is always better to reach out to an adult to try to make sure that they receive the support they need/ deserve.
What are warning signs of people at risk of hurting themselves or others? These are just a few that people may observe:
- Fascination or obsession with firearms and/ or mass shootings
- Difficulty controlling anger or regulating emotions may appear as over-reactions or aggressive behavior for seemingly minor reasons
- Sudden change in academic performance, withdrawing from family or friends, and/or disinterest in areas that they used to enjoy
- Victims of bullying or feeling picked on or persecuted by others
- Isolation or social withdrawal
- Access to firearms
- Making threats of violence
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Previous suicide attempts, suicidal ideation, or self-harm
- Major changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Dramatic changes in physical appearance
- Giving away possessions
- Severe destruction of property
- Access/ use and prevalence of drugs and alcohol/ substance abuse
Again, because it bears repeating... if it doesn't seem right, say something! 80% of school shooters told someone of their violent plans prior to the event. 70% of people who complete suicide told someone of their plans or gave some type of warning or indication.
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