Preparing for National Suicide Prevention Month: Essential Resources and Actions
By: Erica Stokes
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to amplify our efforts in raising awareness, providing support, and advancing suicide prevention strategies. Here’s what you need to know to prepare and contribute effectively during this critical month.
Essential Research and Insights
Recent studies have shed light on various aspects of suicide and mental health, providing invaluable data that can inform our prevention strategies. For instance, a new study published in JAMA Network focuses on suicide in U.S. preteens aged 8 to 12 years from 2001 to 2022, highlighting a disturbing trend that demands attention. Additionally, research from Science Advances explores the population-scale impact of suicide contagion, offering insights into how social influences can affect suicide rates.
For those working with veterans, the Journal of Affective Disorders published a study on gender differences in risk and resilience for suicidal thoughts and behaviors among U.S. veterans who recently attempted suicide. Understanding these differences is crucial for tailoring interventions that are sensitive to the unique needs of this population (The CAMS Connection).
Training and Education Opportunities
As part of your preparations for National Suicide Prevention Month, consider enhancing your skills through advanced training. CAMS is offering a 20% discount on their advanced training modules throughout September. These courses cover a range of topics, from CAMS-4Teens® to managing difficult patients, and are designed to help clinicians address the diverse needs of their clients.
Upcoming Events
Mark your calendar for the CAMS Consultation Calls and Role-Play Training in September, which provide hands-on learning opportunities to deepen your understanding of suicide-specific care. Another notable event is the International Association for Suicide Prevention’s inaugural Pan-American Conference in Minneapolis from November 19-22, which will bring together experts to discuss global suicide prevention strategies.
Helpful Resources for Suicide Prevention
In addition to training, it’s essential to have access to the right resources. For parents, the Zero Suicide initiative offers a guide titled “Parents to Parents: After Your Child’s Suicide Attempt,” providing support and information to families in crisis. Meanwhile, the Suicide Prevention Resource Center has developed a course on “Talking About Lethal Means,” aimed at crisis counselors who work with individuals at risk of suicide.
For those focusing on telehealth, the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention has released a series of videos to help practitioners adopt standard suicide risk screening practices in telehealth settings. These resources are crucial as telehealth continues to play a significant role in providing accessible mental health care (The CAMS Connection).
Grant Funding Opportunities
To further support your suicide prevention initiatives, several grant opportunities are available. These include the Community-Based Maternal Behavioral Health Services Program (applications due August 26, 2024) and the Suicide Prevention Across the Life Span in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (applications due October 24, 2024). These grants offer funding to expand and enhance suicide prevention programs, particularly in underserved communities.
By staying informed and engaged with these resources, research, and training opportunities, you can make a significant impact during National Suicide Prevention Month and beyond.