Self-Harm Awareness & Suicide Prevention

Understanding the Connection

A Message for Students and Families

Signs & Symptoms of Self-Harm

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Self-Harm – National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Suicidal thoughts and self-harm are connected, but they are not the same thing. Suicidal ideation means having thoughts about wanting to die or not wanting to be alive, while self-harm refers to intentionally hurting one’s body as a way to cope with strong or overwhelming emotions. Many young people who self-harm are not trying to end their lives; instead, they may be trying to manage pain, stress, or feelings they don’t know how to express. However, self-harm can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts over time, which is why both should be taken seriously. When students and families understand this connection, it becomes easier to recognize warning signs, talk openly, and seek help early—before a crisis occurs.

New teachers complete required interactive suicide prevention training, and the College, Career, and Student Support department offers ongoing online learning for all educators. Mental health professionals receive more intensive training, and PWCS further promotes student‑led initiatives focused on suicide and depression awareness.

Supporting Mental Health

Youth Suicide Facts in the U.S.

Suicide has a devastating impact on youth in the United States, ranking among the leading causes of death for children, teens, and young adults, with especially high risk among young males, LGBTQ youth, and students experiencing serious mental health challenges.

Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10–14 and the 3rd leading cause of death among people aged 15-24 in the U.S.

79%

of all people who die by suicide are male.

Although more women than men attempt suicide, men are 4x more likely to die by suicide.
46%

of people who die by suicide had a diagnosed mental health condition.

Research shows that 90% may have experienced symptoms of a mental health condition.
18.8%

of high school students have serious thoughts of suicide.

Annual rates of serious suicidal thoughts increase sharply by age and identity, affecting 4.9% of all adults, 11.3% of young adults ages 18-25, and 45% of LGBTQ youth.