Message Regarding Our COVID-19 Policies

Safe Shores – The DC Children’s Advocacy Center is committed to being a safe, helpful, and trustworthy resource, available to everyone who needs our services and support. Due to COVID-19, we are observing federal and local government public health protection guidelines. Upon arrival, visitors will complete a COVID-19 screening (questions and temperature check) and may be asked to wear a mask. If you have recently had COVID-19, you must wear a mask on the premises for the full 10 days from the date of exposure or infection, consistent with DC Health Department and CDC guidance.

To report suspected child abuse in the District of Columbia call 1-202-671-SAFE(7233)
To report suspected internet crimes against children, contact report.cybertip.org

Safe Shores

To report suspected child abuse / Para reportar sospechas de abuso:

1-202-671-SAFE (7233)

Suicide Prevention: The Facts, Warning Signs and How to Help

Suicide Prevention: Know the Facts

Let this sink in: Suicide is the second leading cause of death for young people ages 10-24. Youth suicide has climbed by 56% in the last 10 years and only continues to rise, according to CDC data released just last month. Most importantly, though: youth suicide is preventable.

While September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, every month, week and day should be used to recognize the struggles our youth are facing, particularly during the pandemic.

Preventing suicide means knowing the signs and learning how to help. Use the information in the graphic below:

Suicide Prevention: Know the Warning Signs

  • Discussion of suicide or death, or creating a plan to die by suicide
  • Talking about feeling hopeless, having no reason to live, being a burden, being trapped or in unbearable pain
  • Behaving recklessly, increasing alcohol or drug use
  • Isolating and withdrawing
  • Rapid changes of behavior, extreme mood swings
  • Lack of interest in hobbies

Suicide warning signs are from The National Suicide Prevention Hotline and Crisis Text Line

Suicide Prevention: Know How to Help

  • Be direct and open. Ask if they are thinking about suicide.
  • Listen, empathize and don’t minimize the situation.
  • Don’t act shocked or upset. Be someone they can talk to about how they’re feeling without judgment.
  • Don’t give advice or lecture. Show love and compassion.
  • Don’t push them to open up faster than they’re comfortable.
  • Take action by removing the means of suicide, and getting help from a doctor or helpline.

Suicide warning signs are from The National Suicide Prevention Hotline and Crisis Text Line

 

If you are struggling, reach out. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text “Talk” to Crisis Text Line at 741-741.