NNews January 2025

12 January 2025 In 2021, SPTS acquired Lead U to expand its reach and provide engaging, preventive programs for learners of all ages. The story of theWoodbridge Youth Council exemplifies SPTS’ dedication to youth empowerment. In 2018, following the suicide of an 18-year-old in the community, Daniel Dias, a sophomore at Roselle High School, partneredwith his principal and SPTS to establish the council, which continues to thrive today. Dias currently serves as the Youth Suicide Prevention Associate for the New Jersey Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. The organizations collaborate by presenting at each other’s events and holding joint summits throughout the state. Funded by SPTS through donations and grants, youth councils operate in both public and private schools. These councils follow a core curriculum, which was developed by SPTS and focuses on the eight dimensions of wellness. Students apply to participate after the council is promoted at their schools. Initially tasked with developing initiatives to increase access tomental health services within their schools, the youth councils have evolved to offer a comprehensive programduring their monthly meetings held from September to May. “The councils practice self-care, create vision boards, discuss coping mechanisms for negative thoughts, and role-play various scenarios, such as how to respond if a friend is expressing suicidal thoughts,” explainedDias. “We The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide: Empowering Youths and Communities (continued from page 11) “ You don’t have to be in the mental health field to make a difference. We all have to lift each other up. ” Daniel Dias Youth Suicide Prevention Associate New Jersey Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics also help young people identify trusted adults and discuss how to reach out to those adults on behalf of friends in need.” According to Tellone, the youth councils were rebranded as Be S-Well Clubs shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic. Meetings transitioned to a virtual format during this time, resulting in a rise in attendance. Recognizing transportation challenges, SPTS continues to offer virtual meetings alongside in-person gatherings at schools and other locations. “We are actively encouraging the formation of Be S-Well Clubs in schools,” Tellone said. “We will support club leaders and students in any way we can to ensure they grasp the core curriculum and the concept of the wellness wheel.” Free Be S-Well Summits Empower Schools SPTS offers free day-long Be S-Well Summits to public and private high schools across New Jersey. These summits include workshops designed for students, faculty and staff. Activities address crucial topics, such as friendship, social media use, kindness and leadership skills. “There’s a certain beauty in having young people like Daniel, who have graduated high school, talk to current students about overcoming challenges,” Tellone remarked. “The ability to submit anonymous comments and questions fosters open discussions.” Issues addressed during these summits include how to navigate situations where parents or teachers dismiss mental health concerns, managing friendships during difficult times, coping with breakups, and handling pressure and expectations in high school and college. “These discussions benefit everyone,” Tellone emphasized. Engaging Resources, Empowering Youths