Hope Squad is an educational program developed to address mental health and suicide prevention in schools.[1][2] It was founded in 2004.[3]
History edit
It was founded by Greg Hudnall, a former principal in Provo, Utah, following a series of student suicides, the most notable occurring in 1997 involving a 14-year-old student.[4][5]
The program's development involved collaboration with Brigham Young University, Wasatch Mental Health, and other organizations, leading to the formation of Hope4Utah.[4][6] Initially focused on high schools, the scope of Hope Squad expanded to include elementary schools after the suicide of a fourth-grade student.[4]
Hope Squad's approach involves training students to recognize and respond to mental distress and suicidal ideation among their peers.[4] Its establishment was a response to high rates of youth suicide in the western United States, particularly in Utah, where it has become the leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 18.[4]
The program began in Utah, where it was implemented in 70 percent of schools, and subsequently expanded to other states including Wyoming and Alaska.[4] Its growth continued across the United States and Canada, leading to the formation of numerous Hope Squad chapters.[4][3]
References edit
- ^ "What is the Hope Squad and how is it helping teens in Utah improve their mental health?". Deseret News. January 19, 2023.
- ^ "What is Hope Squad? Local kids lean on each other for mental health help". The Cincinnati Enquirer.
- ^ a b HARDING, ADELLA (May 20, 2023). "Hope Squad program coming to schools". Elko Daily Free Press.
- ^ a b c d e f g "Hope Squad founder shares success of suicide prevention program, says more help needed".
- ^ "'Starting with young people.' Hope Squad suicide prevention spreads across Cape schools". Cape Cod Times.
- ^ McGinn, Zoe Woolf (May 11, 2017). "HOPE Squads help prevent suicide in Utah high schools". The Daily Universe.