The Lifeline Around Your Neck: Suicide Hotline on Student IDs

By: Elle Simons

Entering the new year, students at Jenks High School took notice of a subtle but powerful addition to their school IDs. Alongside their picture and grade level now displays the number to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline as well as the Crisis Text Line. The new attachment has sparked several discussions among students and teachers about the ongoing mental health epidemic that lingers throughout schools.

The implementation of these new IDs became statewide on July 1st, 2023, affecting students from 7th to 12th grades. According to the state Medical Examiner’s Office, 38 people between the ages 8-17 lost their lives to suicide in Oklahoma during 2020, making suicide the second leading cause of death for youth in the state. Sen. Bill Coleman, founder of the new ID law, hopes that the new advancement will encourage students to seek guidance in times of crisis.

“There’s no rhyme or reason as to why someone makes this tragic decision,” said Coleman in a press release. “I want to ensure our students have a constant reminder on their student IDs that they are not alone and there is always someone a phone call away to help them in times of crisis.”

However, some students have mixed feelings about the new advancements. Kayleeh Ester (11) believes that while the IDs raise awareness, they may not provide the exact guidance that students truly need.

“I think that the new IDs bring awareness, but I don’t think that a lot of students take it seriously,” said Ester. “The hotline saves lives, but it feels like the school isn’t going any further than awareness.”

Likeminded, Angelina Basquez (12) expresses that the new breakthrough with the IDs tends to be joked around with instead of taken seriously. Basquez, beginning her senior year, has witnessed how Jenks has transformed over the years and acknowledges her appreciation for the improvement, but wishes to see more substantial changes in the future.

“The first time I saw it, I was really excited,” said Basquez. “It wasn’t long before I realized that most students don’t take it seriously and see it as another joke. It was a nice gesture, but gestures only do so much.”

Teachers, on the other hand, have a different perspective. Danielle Henry emphasizes that the new IDs are a small but powerful aspect of spreading awareness. Though a minor change, it is a change that will be making a positive impact on the students of Jenks.

“Acknowledging students and giving them a resource is a step in the right direction,” said Henry. “As a teacher and a parent, the data for teen suicide is alarming. It’s clear that we need to continue to spread awareness.”

In her role as coordinator for Jenks’ DUB (Donate-Your-Best) week, a week dedicated to fundraising, she plans to organize multiple activities centered around suicide prevention and mental health awareness included in the events of the week.

“Not every student has a support system; school is a safe place for a lot of kids,” said Henry. “As a teacher, it’s my responsibility to give students the proper support they need to succeed.”

While the new IDs are still recent, and their effects remain to be discovered, they present a unique opportunity for discussions on important subjects such as mental health and suicide awareness within educational settings. As new mental health protocols proceed to develop, it’s essential that students remain aware of upcoming changes and continue to express their viewpoints. The collective efforts of students, educators, and policymakers have the potential to create a safer and more supportive environment for all.

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, visit here for more information.