Topic: Juvenile Jam / suicidal juveniles

I don’t completely trust MAYSI’s but they are a good indicator of were a kid is at .I’ve found the best method of prevention is simply to ask the juvenile if he wants to kill him/herself.It sounds simple but it’s effective.I also frequently will write up a contract that the juvenile will not make an attempt to harm themselves while in custody.I give them a handshake and have them sign it and tell them how valuable their word is to me, It’s very effective.Obviously if your gut is telling you I dont trust him/her get them evaluated by a specialist.Juveniles who cut/scratch are not always suicidal but more often than not cut to feel/deal with problems.Again talk to them ask if they have been cutting for a while or recently and why they do it. Having understanding, knowledge and building a repoir are always the best tools to fighting suicide