Policies to Support Mental and Behavioral Health

Many states have limited resources to address mental health and suicide in a coordinated manner. These topics often receive less attention and funding than other public health problems which makes it difficult for states to impact these conditions. However, new guidelines and tools for health care providers, public health, and community groups are available.

Recommendations for State Suicide Prevention Network

The Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) provides recommendations to help state leaders establish a statewide infrastructure to reduce suicide rates.

A strong state infrastructure serves as a solid foundation for effective, comprehensive, and sustained suicide prevention. Working with a panel of experts, SPRC developed these recommendations to help identify and strengthen key elements of suicide prevention infrastructure in communities. The recommendations are organized into six essential elements with specific guidance in each area. You can read the recommendations and real-life examples from around the United States on each essential element.

American Association of Suicidology (AAS)

American Association of Suicidology (AAS) provides numerous resources for mental and public health professionals, researchers, suicide prevention and crisis intervention centers, school districts, and crisis center volunteers, including training, crisis resources, reporting recommendations, and other tools, some of which are highlighted below.

Suicide in the Media and Social Media

Suicide reported by the media has the potential to inspire other vulnerable individuals to attempt suicide themselves (known as suicide contagion). AAS offers the Suicide Reporting Recommendations Guide to help organizations work with the media to craft stories and use the appropriate language to prevent suicide contagion.