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Originally Posted On: https://instantcard.net/suicide-prevention-on-student-id-cards/

South Carolina has passed new legislation requiring public and private colleges and universities, as well as public schools serving grades 7-12, to have the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number and additional crisis resources on school-issued student identification cards. The new legislation, Student Identification Card Suicide Prevention Act, S. 231, will provide students the resources they need in times of a crisis. It is important to note that requiring students to carry ID badges with them at all times is just one convenient way of making sure that they have this important information to reach out in times of crisis, when otherwise they wouldn’t know what to do.

One of the main reasons behind this legislation is that suicide is a leading cause of death among young people, and easy access to crisis resources can be a crucial factor in preventing suicide. By having the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number and additional crisis resources readily available on student ID cards, it can help to ensure that students have the support they need when they need it.

What information is required per the Suicide Prevention Act?

Student ID cards provided by universities must have the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline telephone number and contact information for an additional crisis resource selected by the university. The Student Identification Card Suicide Prevention Act, S. 231 applies to all student ID cards being issued for the first time and replacement cards. Prior to the start of each school year, schools will be required to certify that the information on the student IDs is up to date and reflects the current information for crisis resources on the South Carolina Department of Mental Health’s website.

This new legislation is a step in the right direction in terms of addressing the issue of suicide among young people. It is important to note that suicide prevention is a multifaceted issue and requires a comprehensive approach. In addition to easy access to crisis resources, it is also important to address underlying issues such as mental health and provide support for individuals who may be at risk of suicide.

One way to address mental health is through counseling and therapy services. Many universities and schools offer counseling services to their students, and these services can be extremely beneficial for those who may be struggling with mental health issues. Additionally, there are also a number of national organizations and hotlines that provide support and resources for those who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts. For example, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is a national organization that provides support, resources and education to those who have been affected by suicide. They also have a 24/7 helpline available for those who need immediate support.

Another important aspect of suicide prevention is providing education and awareness about the issue. Many organizations, such as the AFSP, provide educational resources and training programs to help individuals recognize the warning signs of suicide and how to intervene and provide support. It is also important for universities and schools to provide education and awareness programs to their students and staff to help them understand the issue and how they can support those who may be at risk.

In conclusion, the Student Identification Card Suicide Prevention Act, S. 231 is a crucial step in addressing the issue of suicide among young people. By providing easy access to crisis resources on student ID cards, it can help to ensure that students have the support they need when they need it. However, it is also important to address underlying issues such as mental health and provide support for individuals who may be at risk of suicide. This can be done through counseling and therapy services, national organizations, and education and awareness programs.