Understanding Suicide Contagion and Clusters in School Communities

In school communities, suicide can have a ripple effect, especially for adolescent populations. To reduce the risk of additional suicides or suicidal behaviours, school psychologists need an understanding of suicide contagion and clusters. Suicide contagion refers to the phenomenon where exposure to suicidal behaviour or suicidal ideation can increase the likelihood of others engaging in similar behaviours. This can occur through various channels, such as media coverage or personal relationships. Developing an awareness of this concept is crucial as it highlights the need for responsible reporting and prevention efforts to help reduce the risk of further suicides within school communities. Suicide clusters are incidents where multiple suicides occur within a specific time frame and geographic area. These clusters often involve individuals who are connected in some way, such as being part of the same social group or community. By recognizing these patterns, school psychologists can identify warning signs, implement appropriate interventions, work with other professionals and stakeholders to address the underlying factors contributing to the cluster, and provide support to at-risk individuals.

To learn more about suicide contagion and clusters and crucial actions school psychologists should take  following a suicide death in their school community, the National Association of School Psychologists has published two articles: "Suicide Contagion and Clusters—Part 1: What School Psychologists Should Know" and "Suicide Contagion and Clusters—Part 2: What Can a School Psychologist Do?."