Suicide prevention efforts in Sublette County
Frightening statistics, uncomfortable questions
by Ranae Pape, Wyoming Prevention Management Organization of Sublette County
January 23, 2013
Wyoming leads the nation in suicides per capita. Middle-aged men account for a high proportion of the completed suicides in Wyoming. Due to Wyoming’s rural nature, there are often issues associated with accessing mental health services. The uncomfortable question of, "Are you thinking of committing suicide?" is often frowned upon, denied, and unheard of in Wyoming. Although the question is scary for most people, the question itself deters the act of suicide almost entirely.
On January 18, the Southwest Region Suicide Prevention Specialist for the Prevention Management Organization of Wyoming, Julie Welsh, and Lincoln County Coroner, Mike Richins, presented information to community members on suicide prevention efforts. Julie and Mike presented information to both Pinedale and Big Piney attendees on how they can make a difference in suicide prevention in our community.
The session explained to community members the different trainings offered to community groups, churches, youth groups, individuals and caring individuals. QPR training, Question–Persuade–Refer is offered as a gatekeeper method of involvement. This 60-90 minute training is free to groups, including for school-aged youth. A session can be scheduled anytime and is free of charge for Sublette County residents.
Also presented to community members was Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), which will be offered in Big Piney in the spring. This is a two-day, credited course for stakeholders in the community. EMT, Sheriff Officers, Teachers, Counselors and Clergy are the target attendees for this course. Normally a $245.00 course, ASIST will be offered to Sublette County participants free of charge.
For information on organizing a training for your organization please contact Ranae Pape at sublettecountyprevention@hotmail.com or 307-360-6382.
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