Every September during National Suicide Prevention Month, communities across the country gather to break the silence surrounding mental health, but inside Lubbock ISD, that message of hope is deeply personal.
Sunflowers Over Suicide (SOS) began at Lubbock High School in memory of Miranda and Morgan, two beloved students whose lives were lost too soon. Inspired by Miranda’s love for sunflowers and her tradition of baking birthday brownies for friends, three Lubbock High IB students launched SOS as their CAS project. What started as a dedicated tribute has grown into a powerful movement.
"Sunflowers Over Suicide is more than just an organization that focuses on the aftermath and loss that comes with suicide. We actively look for opportunities in which we can teach others about its prevention," said Braddock Bray, an SOS member and Lubbock High School junior. "By having these open and compassionate conversations, we strive to break the silence that so often isolates those who struggle with their mental health. Like the flower we are named for, our mission is to turn toward the light, providing hope and resources to those who are navigating through this darkness of suicide. We believe that through our education and strong empathy, we can save lives and remind every individual of their self-worth and the love that others have for them."
Students bake sunflower-shaped brownies, cakes, and cookies; pot and share sunflowers with uplifting messages; organize campus walks and movie nights; and host "It’s Real: Teens and Mental Health" for middle school and high school students. Each effort has carried forward the message that no one walks alone. Through the generosity of the Lubbock ISD Foundation for Excellence Grant, SOS also expanded its reach by creating care baskets for students in Lubbock ISD who experience the loss of a loved one.
"There are so many uncontrollable things in life, and unfortunately, death is one of them. Sometimes living can feel harder than giving up, but a temporary situation should never make someone quit on their future," said SOS member David Dass and Lubbock High School junior. "To me, Sunflowers Over Suicide means turning toward the light, just like a sunflower, and reminding people that nobody should struggle or mourn alone. Being able to stand up and say, 'I need help,' takes strength, and through self-love, education, and emotional support, we can help others find that strength. Just like sunflowers grow toward the sunlight, we can grow toward hope and help others find their light along the way."
To support their mission throughout National Suicide Prevention Month, SOS is hosting community fundraisers at the Glenna Goodacre Chipotle on Sept. 15 from 5 to 9 p.m. and Texas Roadhouse on Sept. 22 from 3 to 10 p.m. The group will conclude the month on Sept. 30 with a special presentation on teen suicide prevention legislation from Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows. Additionally, you can support the initiative by participating in the Lubbock Out of the Darkness Walk on Oct. 24.
"My experience with Sunflowers Over Suicide taught me that change begins with a conversation," said Keeya Hegde, a former SOS member and 2026 Lubbock High School graduate. "By helping lead this program, I was able to be a part of something that challenged the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraged people to speak openly, listen without judgment, and support those around them. I’m proud of the seeds of change we were all able to plant together and the awareness that it has caused today."
This student-led initiative reflects a broader push across Lubbock ISD, where district officials are working to expand support systems beyond individual campuses to reach every family in the community. This month serves as a key reminder of the district's commitment to creating environments where every student feels safe, valued, and supported.
"Mental health concerns affect many families across every community," said Cicely Alexander, Lubbock ISD executive director of counseling and college career readiness. "By building awareness and encouraging open conversations, we can reduce stigma and help students and families connect with the resources they need. Our priority is to ensure that students and families have access to immediate and ongoing support."
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is always available and you do not have to carry it alone. You can reach the nationwide Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 24/7 by calling or texting 988 for free, confidential support from a trained counselor. Teens and families can also reach out to the Texas Youth Helpline by calling or texting 800-989-6884 to find local counseling and support resources. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and support is always just a phone call or text away.
Immediate, 24/7 Support Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 anytime to be connected with a trained crisis counselor. An online chat is also available at 988lifeline.org.
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor via text message.
Lubbock County Crisis Intervention: Call 806-740-1414 to connect with local, professional mental health crisis support.
Safe2Say Something: Call 1-844-723-2729, use the mobile app, or visit the website at https://www.safe2saypa.org/ to anonymously report any safety concern for a student, including threats of self-harm.
Emergency Services: For any immediate safety concern, call 911.