Prairie State Wire

A suicide prevention grant from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is funding an expansion of mental health services, allowing high school students across Illinois to access up to eight in-person or telehealth counseling sessions.

This initiative marks the third year of a planned five-year grant from IDPH to DuPage High School District 88. To date, DuPage has received nearly $440,000 for the grant, which initially aimed to provide “postvention” services after a student has attempted or committed suicide. The funding now supports a portal through which students statewide can connect with a “care navigator” who assists in linking them to treatment services.

“Preventing suicide and promoting mental health in Illinois are critical IDPH priorities that require innovative community-based solutions,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “IDPH is proud to partner with ISBE and DuPage High School District to strengthen and expand this critical program, providing students across Illinois access to counseling services when and where they need them.”

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders highlighted the role of schools in supporting student mental health: “DuPage High School District 88’s creation of the postvention portal is a powerful example of how schools can step up to address the mental health needs of our students and communities. By launching this resource, alongside the expansion to telehealth services, DuPage is leading the way in ensuring that students across Illinois have the tools and support they need during their most vulnerable moments.”

Dr. Jean Barbanette, Superintendent of DuPage High School District 88, expressed enthusiasm for participating in the grant: "DuPage High School District 88 is a strong supporter of providing vital mental health services for our students, families and community. We are excited to be part of a grant to provide assistance and treatment."

Parents within District 88 have also shared positive feedback about the service:

“This service is amazing - besides the cost being covered for some sessions, it was so timely after I completed the form and worked to match my son with a therapist in our area and one that takes my insurance. As I have searched for therapists in the past, it is a process that requires a lot of time and often is not fruitful.”

“Our teen has grown more comfortable sharing her feelings & finding ways to de-escalate her emotions and stress.”

“My daughter comes home from her session and she is a changed person. Although she has a long way to go, I feel she is part of the family again.”

District 88 collaborates with Referral GPS, an external company administering both phone line support and secure web portals where students and families can seek counseling assistance. Referral GPS will triage incoming inquiries and direct those seeking help toward appropriate clinical providers. Telehealth services will also be available, enhancing access for students in remote areas who may face challenges arranging in-person visits.

Students can access these services at Adolescent Suicide Postvention | ReferralGPS or by texting “HOME” to 741741. For immediate assistance during emergencies, individuals should contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

The IDPH grant funding originates from the U.S. Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), under its Garrett Lee Smith State/Tribal Youth Suicide Prevention & Early Intervention Program.