Self Harm/Suicide threats

[JudithL_in_NH]

What is your camp's policy in dealing with a homesick camper who hints at, or outright claims, s/he has thoughts of self harm or suicide?

Do you assess the seriousness of the claim and counsel the camper, contract for safety and monitor, contact parents, and/or immediately refer to a mental health professional?

[nightingale, RN]

I do not know of a policy at a Camp nor am I a psych nurse... with that said:

24 hour watch till a family member picks this kid up from camp.

Call parents immediately, who knows how serious a claim this is.

Notify Dr. immediately (after call to parents).

This can just amplify to the other kids in camp and is NOT the kind of thing kids say.

Good luck and let us know how you are doing.