John Detwiler

I learned about the newer digital ways to self harm.  I had a feeling that there were going to be new tech ways that would emerge due to the sheer exposure to digital media.  I have become more aware of how much more younger people know about their digital world than I do.  Each year as I get older, I feel one more step removed from understanding all the new tech that they are exposed to.  I try to keep current, but these changes happen so fast and seem to spread like wildfire among the younger folks.

I learned about organizations and people involved in suicide prevention and awareness that I didn't know existed.  I was also shocked to learn about the facts and myths surrounding the topic.  I was also unaware of the demographic differences in suicide attempts versus completions.  I had so many of these facts entirely wrong.  As a teacher, I will be able to much more vigilant with this information.  I will be able to identify potential indicators and perhaps offer a word or two in private with a potentially affected student.