Peel board stands up for student mental health on World Suicide Prevention Day

"Won't you stand up and use your voice?" says director

TORONTO, Sept. 10, 2012 /CNW/ - Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, and throughout the year, the Peel District School Board encourages all parents and educators to stand up—to come together for a conversation when they find themselves concerned about a student.  Notes Director of Education Tony Pontes, "At the Peel board, we believe in a team approach to support students with mental health issues. Together we are stronger and collaboration leads to better support plans for our students.

"To all parents, students and staff I ask, 'won't you stand up and use your voice' when it comes to youth mental health? We are no less than the eyes and ears that can help to identify a student in need of support," says Pontes. "Each of us plays a critical role in the emotional well-being of our students. Whether we see the child in crisis or we notice a child who sits alone when we're out on a school visit, we must be in-tune to the spirit of each child, and care enough to ask about his or her story. A student never forgets an encouraging word or an invitation to talk."

The Peel board has posted a video and resources to help parents, staff and students stand up for student mental health. Visit www.peelschools.org/standup.  The video will be shown in schools and is part of a comprehensive student mental health and well-being plan.

World Suicide Prevention Day was created by the International Association for Suicide Prevention to end the silence, encourage discussion and ultimately help prevent deaths from suicide.

SOURCE: Peel District School Board

Media contact:  Tony Pontes, Director of Education, 905-890-1010 ext. 2006

Reference:  Brian Woodland, Director of Communications, 905-890-1010 ext. 2812, [email protected]