According to the CDC, 45,979 people committed suicide in 2020. This proves the fatality and damage on our community at the hands of suicide. Recently, I decided to conduct an interview with Pierce Nikolai ’26, one of Jesuit Hope Squad’s newest members.
What is Hope Squad?
“Hope Squad is a nationally recognized suicide prevention program. Jesuit is the only single-gender school in the United States to have a Hope Squad organization.”
You were nominated for the positions by your classmates. Why did you choose to accept this position?
“I chose to accept this position because I wanted to have a part in helping my peers through whatever they are going through like depression, anxiety, and other things. Also, I lost my great-uncle to suicide back when I was a baby.” 
Hope Squad members at their retreat at Lake Lewisville (Photo Credit to the Jesuit Hope Squad page on Instagram).
What are some Activities you do in Hope Squad?
“In Hope Squad we learn about the gatekeeper program called QPR. We comfort our peers and make sure everyone is safe and recently, we went on a retreat out to Lake Lewisville, and we learned about the QPR and how to prevent suicide.”
What signs do you look for in someone who is thinking about committing suicide?
“We look for a change in personality. Maybe if they’re depressed or maybe if they have anxiety. Another thing is if they give away really personal items to people. That is a big sign. Suddenly they lose interest in everything, and also if they acquire lethal items.”
How could a person get in contact with you if they spot someone who is showing these particular signs?
“One thing you can look out for to identify us are the red lanyards. We are all wearing red lanyards and we all have Jesuit Dallas Hope Squad ties that we wear on Tuesdays. We also have wristbands, buttons, and pins. If you spot someone who is showing these signs you can get in contact with us and ask how they are, and we’ll see if they want to go see the counselor with us. If they don’t want to see the counselor, the counselor will have a conversation with them.
Stay tuned to more organization news around Jesuit!