Centerstone introducing new Zero Suicide initiative

Centerstone is introducing a "zero suicide" initiative.

Centerstone has long had a focus on crisis and suicide prevention services, but this initiative adds more resources around the issue of suicide.

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 48,244 Americans died by suicide in 2018 and another estimated 1.4 million attempts were made.

"Zero lives lost to suicide has always been our goal and the Zero Suicide initiative will further support that goal," said Jenna Farmer-Brackett, clinical manager at Centerstone. "As a society we get closer to the goal of losing zero lives to suicide by everyone working together to increase comfort around talking openly and non-judgmentally about suicide."

The Zero Suicide initiative will provide a safe place for clients to talk about suicide, help erase the stigma of talking about this issue and educate people to have conversations and take steps to get help.

Educational trainings and professional development opportunities will be provided to staff to further increase comfort and knowledge around suicide, suicide screenings and supporting clients when safety may be a concern.

"As we grow, this initiative will continue to change and evolve with our organization," said John Markley, Centerstone CEO. "We are committed to delivering care that changes people's lives."

If you or someone you know has thoughts of suicide contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255 or text HOME to the Crisis TextLine at 741741.

For more information about this program and others, connect with Centerstone at (877) 467-3123) or visit centerstoneconnect.org.