OHIO: CDC Survey Becomes a Tool in Stark County Suicide Prevention
November 02, 2018
Health officials in Stark County, Ohio, have released a report on youth suicide. The report includes findings from a survey of more than 15,000 middle and high school students carried out last year by county and state health departments. It found that 1 in 5 students has had suicidal thoughts and 1 in 11 has attempted suicide. To address these findings, the report lays out strategies in seven areas: (1) increase access to suicide care, (2) create safe environments, (3) promote social support, (4) teach coping and problem-solving skills, (5) identify and assist people at risk, (6) respond effectively to suicide deaths and attempts, and (7) regularly assess student health and well-being. “The report emphasizes the importance of . . . collaboration in developing and enhancing youth suicide prevention strategies,” said Stark County Health Commissioner Kirk Norris.
Spark Extra! Read the full report.