The District of Columbia State Athletic Association (DCSAA) announced that it is making a mental health and suicide prevention program available to all D.C. high school athletic coaches, administrators and trainers.

“While we are encouraged that student-athletes have returned to competition this spring and look forward to a gradual return to normalcy, it remains more important than ever that we do everything possible to support our student-athletes through this unprecedented situation,” DCSAA Executive Director Clark Ray said. “We want to build strong relationships, identify when students may benefit from additional behavioral health support and ensure that students are connected to the support they need.”

Working in concert with the DC Department of Behavioral Health, the DCSAA is making available four modules. They can be accessed online at kognitocampus.com.

• At-risk for high school educators
• Step in, speak up
• Referral process
• Resilient together

“When we listen and engage our young people in conversation it provides insight into their emotional or mental health needs. Early identification and intervention promote improved mental health and reduce the risk of lifelong challenges”, said Barbara J. Bazron, Ph.D., Director of the DC Department of Behavioral Health.  “Sports leaders have a special relationship with students and the DBH sponsored trainings, give them additional tools to support their positive engagement.”

To learn more about the District of Columbia State Athletic Association, please visit www.dcsaasports.org.