Resource Library-Notice. Talk. Act.® at School: High School Student Handout

Pdf Summary

Mental health is just as crucial as physical health, with one in five teens experiencing mental health challenges. Alarmingly, suicide ranks as one of the top three causes of death among teens. You can support your mental health and that of your friends through a simple three-step approach: Notice, Talk, Act.

<strong>Notice:</strong> Stay alert for changes in behavior, mood, or habits in yourself and your peers. Watch for signs like agitation, aggression, posting negative content on social media, risky behavior, or discussions about self-harm or suicide. These indicators warrant attention.

<strong>Talk:</strong> Initiating conversation upon noticing signs is vital. Talking through feelings can alleviate distress and help find solutions. Encourage dialogue with trusted adults or friends, ensuring it occurs in a private, comfortable setting. Show openness and honesty about your feelings. Remember, many people face mental health struggles, and reaching out shows readiness to listen and support.

<strong>Act:</strong> Recognize the importance of seeking support—not just for yourself but for others too. If a friend appears to be in distress, reaching out to a trusted adult is a step toward helping them, not betraying them. Engage school mental health professionals, such as social workers, psychologists, or guidance counselors. It is critical to act if you notice distress signs, demonstrating your care and desire for them to thrive.

For immediate assistance, if anyone is experiencing suicidal thoughts or needs someone to talk to, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, available 24/7.

By following these steps, you can play a significant role in promoting mental wellness and supporting those around you. For further resources, you can visit websites such as apaf.org and seizetheawkward.org.

Asset Caption

This resource aims to increase high school students’ awareness about signs of potential mental health concerns they themselves or their friends may be experiencing, provide guidance on how to talk to someone about these concerns, and share different ways to act to get connected to mental health resources if needed.

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Keywords

mental health

teen suicide

Notice Talk Act

behavior changes

self-harm signs

mental health support

trusted adults

school mental health professionals

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

mental wellness resources