Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School "Peer Leaders" and Faculty Members Participate in "Sources of Strength" Suicide Prevention Training

Approximately 80 student members of the RFH Peer Leaders organization participated in “Sources of Strength” training along with 16 RFH faculty members on February 18.

According to the organization’s web site, Sources of Strength (SOS) leads in the field of suicide prevention by respecting differences among individuals, communities, and cultures and by drawing out stories of strength and healing. The mission of Sources of Strength is to provide the highest quality prevention for suicide, violence, and substance abuse. This is accomplished by training, supporting, and empowering both peer leaders and caring adults in the school community.

“We approach prevention in a different way,” said Turning the Tides Program Manager and event facilitator Rachel Alvarez in her introduction to the group. “Research has shown that programs like this one work best when people like you – here in this gym right now -- learn how to use your own strengths to send positive messages of hope, help, and strength to your peers.”

Jamie Juliano, RFH Child Study Team member and Co-Advisor to the Peer Leaders, helped organize the event and also participated in the SOS training. She described it as a fun experience that appeared to have a powerful impact on all involved.

“It was encouraging to see the students developing creative ideas to spread hope, help, and strength messages to their fellow classmates,” said Juliano. “As one of the adult advisors, I hope to continue helping these students turn their ideas into action so that our whole community can feel the effects of Sources of Strength.”

The group took part of a number of exercises, and learned how to break down communication barriers – or what SOS refers to as “codes of silence” – to help bring about positive change and also increase the likelihood of peer leaders encouraging their fellow students to seek help when they need it.

“The SOS training makes you think about things in a different way,” said RFH sophomore and Peer Leader Ben Pelino.

RFH Student Assistance Counselor Suzanne Fico, who also helped organize and participated in the training, felt that it would have far-reaching implications for all involved.

“Helping students learn how to access their ‘Sources of Strength’ during life’s challenging moments will help them to build resiliency and improve wellness throughout their lifetimes.”