Adolescent Suicide Prevention Program
This suicide prevention program is available to middle/junior and senior high schools in Summit County. The two and three day curriculum is presented by a counselor/teacher. Suicide prevention programs are also available for in-service meetings, professional organizations, and parent education.
Suicide is the third leading cause of death for young people between the ages of 15-24. The suicide rate for young people has increased 300% since the 1960's.
The Mental Health America provides teddy bears to many local Police Departments and to the Sheriff's Department. These teddy bears are given to children whenever the need arises, whether through accident, fire, domestic problem, or any emergency situation.
According to the officers who are participating in this program, the bear comforts the child immediately and represents care and understanding in the midst of a traumatic situation. The usual response of the child is to hug the bear.
Red Flags is a school based program promoting awareness and intervention of childhood depression for students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade.
This program utilizes a video and curriculum (Claire's Story) that includes in-service training for school personnel, a four session lesson plan for students and a seminar for parents and all community members.
PEERS (Parent Education, Empowerment, Resources & Support)
Families having children with emotional or mental health problems are often overwhelmed with their child’s education, medical treatments, and social involvements. PEERS project educates and trains parents on the laws and services that are available to them. It then introduces the trained advocates to concerned parents for assistance navigating the academic, medical, and social systems successfully, which then empowers them to continue advocating for their child effectively.
The PEERS Project is collaboration with many systems in Summit County who work with children and families. Akron Child Guidance and Family Solutions is housing a resource library for the public with information on diagnoses and laws surrounding mental illnesses and developmental disabilities. The Library is at 405 Tallmadge Rd in Cuyahoga Falls.
In addition to providing education, advocacy, and support to families, the PEERS Project Advocates are planning activities with the Ohio Department of Mental Health and are working with Legislators and Policy makers to promote change within the mental health system.