Art Therapy
In many subject matters the occasional “art therapy” project could be worked into the curriculum. For instance, in a literature class students could create art to appear in a zine, or on the cover of a literary magazine. Or the class could create art that expresses a certain theme. Art may also be linked to literature. Read a story about love then create a piece of art with the theme of love.
Art helps students find joy again. Color is very energizing to work with. Art therapy helps students relax, work out their emotions, and explore difficult feelings.
Journal Writing
Writing is very therapeutic.
Help students cope with the strong feelings a suicide will elicit by giving them some journal writing time. Let them free write on topics of their choice. Ask the class if anyone would like to present their journal entry to the class. Some students will also want to talk through the feelings they are having.
Journal writing helps teenagers explore the maelstrom of adolescence in safety. It helps them sort out their feelings and calm an overly emotional state.
Pass to Guidance Department
If a students needs to talk to Guidance let them go. Sometimes just talking is very helpful when a student is overwhelmed. If a student appears visibly distraught talk to them and suggest that perhaps they might like to visit the Guidance department.
Inform the class after the tragedy that they should seek help if their feelings become overwhelming. Too often a suicide may encourage other students to take that same actions. So keep a close watch on students and if someone appears very withdrawn or overwhelmed let the guidance department and school psychologist know.
Information about Suicide Hotlines
Bring in and pass out some information about suicide hotlines and websites helpful to teenagers. Be proactive about ensuring students know where to reach out if they are in crisis. Also encourage students to take advantage of any grief counseling the school offers.
Positive Literature
A lot of literature is quite dark. Much of it involves themes of loss or death. Perhaps in the immediate aftermath of a suicide that impacts the school community it is best to
avoid dark literature. Find stories and novels that are positive and full of optimism about the future. There will be plenty of time to return to more complex literature later in the year. Take some time after a tragedy to do some lighter literature that will keep spirits buoyant instead of brooding.