‘Hope Squad’ empowers kids to look out for peers’ mental health

What started in Utah two decades ago has grown into a nationwide program, changing how schools talk about mental health. Hope Squad is now in its 22nd year, supporting students across the state and country and training kids as young as elementary school to serve as peer mentors.

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“We start really young, teaching them the fundamentals of wellness,” said Noah Canon, an outreach specialist with Hope4Utah.

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Hundreds of fourth through sixth graders from 26 schools recently gathered for a training session at Ogden High School, where they participated in games, songs and group activities designed to help them recognize when a friend is having a hard time and how to step in safely.

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“They’re the bridge from the students who are struggling to the adults who have the resources to help,” Canon said.

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The young participants have been nominated by their peers to serve as Hope Squad members.

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Founded in 2004, Hope Squad was created to reduce suicide through peer-to-peer intervention. Since then, the program has expanded into more than 40 states, training students nationwide on suicide warning signs, bullying prevention and inclusion.

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“I think that students are much more likely to come to one of their friends about something that they’re struggling with rather than going to a teacher or their parent,” said Lily Lutz, a senior at Weber High School. Lutz was nominated to Hope Squad in seventh grade and is now the president of her school’s chapter.

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“I’ve seen a more open environment at my high school,” she said. “People are more willing to talk about their mental health, and I’ve helped many of my friends get help that I would have never known were struggling if I didn’t have training in Hope Squad.”

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Kira Wurm, also a Hope Squad member at Weber High School and a member of the Hope4Utah council, said the program has helped her form meaningful connections while spreading an important message.

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“I’ve been able to make so many friends through Hope Squad and helping share the message that no one is alone,” she said. “It can really save lives. It’s just so important, and I think every school should have Hope Squad.”

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Families and community members interested in starting a program at their school can learn more at hope4utah.com. Hope4Utah, the nonprofit that supports Hope Squad, also offers training for adults.

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If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or exhibiting warning signs, call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 which is answered 24/7/365 by crisis counselors at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute. All calls to legacy crisis hotlines, including the old National Suicide Prevention hotline, 1-800-273-8255, will also connect to a crisis care worker at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute as well.

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Originally published at https://ksltv.com/partnered-content/hmm/hope-squad-mental-health/872118/