In a crisis? Call or text 988.

In a Crisis? Call or Text 988

The Green Bandana Project does not provide emergency or crisis intervention.
If you are located in the United States, dial 911 for medical emergencies or dial 988 if you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts.

View Additional Crisis Services
Menu

The Program

background image overlay

INTRODUCTION

Students face many challenges that can significantly impact their mental health, including academic and social pressures, financial concerns, family issues, environmental concerns, and/or physical health problems. Additionally, suicide is the third leading cause of death for people ages 15-24. The Green Bandana Project aims to decrease risk of mental health crises and suicide among school-aged youth through increasing awareness of mental health resources and empowering students to reach out for help. Learn how you can start The Green Bandana Project program at your school and create lasting change.

Access the Program Guide

Our History

The Green Bandana Project was inspired by “Dan’s Bandana Project”, which was created by Dr. Betsy Gerbec at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls in 2014, after losing her son, Daniel, to suicide. His signature headwear, a bandana, became the project’s symbol, signifying that a student carrying a bandana is a mental health advocate, a trusted support source, and knowledgeable about mental health and suicide prevention resources available to students. In 2016, the project was expanded upon at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In 2022, SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education) acquired the program and continues to meet the needs of today’s students.

How it works

  • Faculty leaders set up the program at school and prepare interested students to become Student Members of the program through orientation and QPR Gatekeeper training.
  • Student Members raise public awareness and educate peers about what the green bandana represents.
  • Student Members help increase general knowledge among the student body about available resources through dissemination of resource cards.
  • Student members empower their student peers in reaching out for help through caring, nonjudgemental conversations, and sharing knowledge on available school mental health resources.
  • Student Members pledge to help foster a safe and accepting school environment and to decrease stigma associated with mental illness and suicide by having open conversations.

Our Impact

The Green Bandana Project has been implemented in over 50 schools in 22 states! In a survey conducted by SAVE, we found:

  • 87% of TGBP Student Members said talking to someone in a mental health crisis feels very comfortable.
  • 93% of TGBP Student Members said that participating in TGBP has made them feel better.
  • 75% of TGBP Student Members said they felt very well-prepared to talk to a peer about mental health and provide resources.

Ready to Get Started?

Download the Program Guide to learn how you can bring The Green Bandana Project program to your school.

Form powered by