Signs of Suicide Screening

The New Bedford Public Schools takes youth suicide very seriously.  Trained staff use the Signs of Suicide (SOS) screening program.  SOS is an award-winning, nationally recognized program designed for middle and high school students.  The program teaches students how to recognize the symptoms of depression and suicidally in themselves or their friends, and encourages help-seeking through the use of the ACT (Acknowledge, Care, Tell) technique.

The SOS high school program is the only school-based suicide prevention program listed on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Registry of Evidenced-Based programs and practices that addresses suicide risk and depression, while reducing actual suicide attempts.