Sept. 14, 2026 — Suicide may be a difficult subject to talk about, but it is an important one.
As we recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month, Team Duval is taking an opportunity to remind families that they can play an important role in recognizing when a child may be struggling and connecting them with support.
“Our students are experiencing real emotional and mental-health challenges,” said Katrina Taylor, DCPS Director of Behavioral Health.
Taylor points to the 2025 Florida-Specific Youth Survey, which found that 14% of students reported seriously considering harming themselves, while 22% reported almost always experiencing symptoms of stress, anxiety, or depression. At the same time, only 26% reported seeking support or resources when experiencing a mental-health challenge.
“These numbers are a powerful reminder that our children may be struggling silently,” Taylor said. “Sometimes a student may not say, ‘I need help.’ Instead, their distress may show up through changes in their mood, behavior, friendships, sleep, attendance or school performance.”
That’s why Taylor encourages parents and caregivers to pause, pay attention, and make sure children know they are seen, heard, and never have to face difficult moments alone.
“As parents and caregivers, you know your child best,” Taylor said. “Pay attention to changes, trust your instincts, and start the conversation.”
What Can You Do?
Look for changes: Pay attention to significant changes in your child’s mood, behavior, friendships, attendance, academic performance or daily routines.
Start the conversation: If something doesn’t seem right, ask your child how they are feeling. If you are concerned about their safety, ask directly whether they are thinking about hurting themselves or not wanting to be alive. Asking directly does not put the idea in their head. It can open the door for your child to share what they are experiencing.
Listen without judgment: Let your child know that you are there to listen and that they will not be in trouble for talking about how they feel.
Connect with help: You do not have to figure it out alone. Reach out to your child’s school counselor, school social worker, school psychologist, or another trusted school staff member when your child needs additional support.
Resources for Children in Crisis
There are resources available to help families navigate a mental-health crisis.
If a child is experiencing active suicidal thoughts or is in immediate danger, families can:
Call 911 and request a Crisis Intervention Trained Officer.
Contact the Mobile Response Team: 904-982-4911.
Call or text 988 to reach the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Call 211 or 904-632-0600 for United Way resources.
Families who believe their child may benefit from school-based mental-health counseling can also complete the DCPS School-Based Mental Health Counseling Referral Form.
For questions or additional information, contact Katrina Taylor at eunicek@duvalschools.org.