Disclaimer: Apps cannot replace professional help and support for those struggling with thoughts of suicide. If you are concerned someone is in danger or at an increased risk of suicide, reach out for professional help immediately and notify the child’s parent or guardian.
Today's kids can access thousands of apps at the touch of their fingers. The increase in technology use has allowed students to access an infinite amount of information. As a result, students struggling with suicidal ideation and mental health concerns can have access to resources at the tap of a screen. We can use technology to give our students the tools to recognize when they may be at risk of harming themselves and how to get help. Below are a few apps that may be helpful for students during a potential crisis.
I'm not sure we can emphasize this enough: No app can replace contacting a licensed medical professional. However, these apps can be helpful tools.
For Those At Risk for Self-Harm or Suicide
MY3
(Android, iOS)
MY3 allows users to create a network of three loved ones. They can connect with these people when they are feeling upset or need someone to talk to. This app helps you create a safety plan. It allows users to identify warning signs and triggers, as well as coping strategies. It also outlines a support network the user can utilize. The hope is that the user will recognize a warning sign and then reach out to one of the three people in their support network for assistance.
Stay Alive
(Android, iOS)
This is designed for people who have been thinking of committing suicide. It helps users create a safety plan with action steps, identify people and places that calm them, and create a “LifeBox” feature. Users can fill their box with inspirational quotes or pictures, breathing exercises, and grounding techniques to reference as needed. There is also quite an extensive knowledge database for concerned friends and family members. They can use this to help educate themselves and find resources.
Operation Reach Out
(iOS)
This app is designed for veterans and their families. It provides access to video vignettes offering suicide counseling and helpful do’s and don’ts when reaching out to a loved one you feel is contemplating suicide. It also includes links to help centers and hotlines. Users or family members can contact these for additional help and resources.
Suicide Prevention App
(iOS)
This app includes a step-by-step guide that walks the user through a suicide safety assessment. Once users complete the assessment, the app identifies current safety and protective factors. It creates a wellness scale that helps users identify areas of concern in real time and includes the next steps they should take. Based on the identified safety concerns, users receive an immediate response plan.
Warning Signs & Suicide Prevention Apps
Jason Foundation: A Friend Asks
(Android, iOS)
This app teaches the user what signs and symptoms to be aware of to help identify someone who may potentially attempt suicide and how to reach out for assistance. This app provides a list of warning signs/symptoms, the do's and don’ts for handling such a sensitive situation, and access to resources for support.
ASK & Prevent Suicide
(Android, iOS)
Much like “A Friend Asks,” this app has a list of warning signs of a person who may be contemplating suicide. This app also advises how to intervene and access help for someone you are concerned about. One extremely useful feature of this app is the quick dial function, which effortlessly connects you with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Suicide Crisis Support
(Android)
This app is designed for the loved ones of those who struggle with suicidal thoughts or tendencies. This app is an electronic version of the booklet “The Tender Leaves of Hope, Helping Someone Survive a Suicide Crisis." This booklet and app were designed to help the loved ones of those who are at risk of harming themselves better understand the mindset and driving factors behind their suicidal ideation.
Ulster County SPEAK
(Android, iOS)
Is another great app that helps to outline suicide warning signs and helps guide users on how to have difficult conversations with those they believe are struggling or need mental health supports. It includes a guide of what to say and what to avoid when attempting to speak with a suicidal loved one about your concerns. It also includes various hotlines and prevention resources for users.
Grounding and Calming Strategies
Positive Activity Jackpot
This app connects users with enjoyable activities in the area. The purpose is for people to connect while engaging in a peaceful distraction.
Calm
This meditation app helps teach users ways to calm their body and ease their mind.
MoodKit
This app utilizes games and activities to help people improve their mood.
Breathe to Relax
This app helps users develop breathing skills to relax and calm their minds and bodies.
Life Armor
This app contains an assessment tool that helps users identify feelings of depression or post-traumatic stress.
Other Helpful Suicide Prevention Sources
Lifeline Chat, 24/7 web chat support service: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-8255
Suicide Prevention Best Practices
Again, nothing can replace a licensed medical professional. The hope is that by giving our young ones access to information, they will use the tools and reach out for help when needed.
