Westerville schools hoping to prevent teen suicide with 'Hope Squad'

WESTERVILLE, Ohio (WSYX) — Since the pandemic, many students have felt isolated, depressed, or burnt out. According to the CDC, teen suicides have soared. Westerville schools now has a program that aims to bring “hope” and help save students’ lives.

Westerville schools now has a program called the “Hope Squad” and their mission is to spread hope, positivity and get rid of the stigma around mental health.

"We're just a group that's here to help. We're just people that willingly devoted our time to help other people,” said Loukas George, Hope Squad member.

The Hope Squad is a student-led, mentoring group that’s trained to notice the signs of someone who may be suicidal or struggling with mental health.

According to the CDC, suicide attempts from February to March, last year were 50 percent higher than in that same time frame in 2019.

"The signs are not necessarily stereotypical, where it's someone who is shy, keeps to themselves. It's like minor changes that happen, and you question it. And you say, why are you feeling this way? Are you okay? Do you need my help?" said Paige Welsheimer, Hope Squad member

"We've had multiple students already go through the process of what we've taught them and how to get the student in need to someone that can help them.,” said Kassie Gutierrez, Hope Squad Advisor.

Even some of the Hope Squad members, who are tasked with spreading positivity, say they’ve felt some darkness during the pandemic.

"It was just really isolating,” said Kaiden Wolfe, Hope Squad member. Personally, I felt just really alone, and was hard to reach out. It almost blocked you off.”

The Hope Squad’s work is year-round. However, during their “Hope Week,” they focus on daily activities including handing out candy grams, passing out a cup of hot cocoa or delivering a handwritten letter. A small gesture, leaving a big impact.

"When you feel connected, or you feel seen or appreciated we automatically feel better,” said Noelle Spriesterbach, Mental Health Specialist.