Public Health Out Loud

September is Suicide Prevention Month. It’s an important time to remember lives lost and acknowledge the huge impact suicide has had on our communities. It’s also a time to bring awareness to the suicide prevention efforts in Rhode Island. In this episode of Public Health Out Loud, Dr. Chan is joined by the Rhode Island Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's Area Director, Kerrie Constant and Board Chair, Keely Taylor. They share their own personal experiences and discuss how everyone can have a role in preventing suicide.

Additional resources:

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline – If you or someone you know are having thoughts of suicide; experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis; or are in emotional distress, you can call or text 988 or chat with 988 at 988lifeline.org. Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7.
• BH Link’s mission is to ensure all Rhode Islanders 18+ experiencing mental health and substance use crises receive the appropriate services they need as quickly as possible in an environment that supports their recovery. Call 401-414-LINK (5465) or visit their 24/7 triage center at 975 Waterman Ave., East Providence, RI.
• Bradley Hospital’s Kids’ Link -. Kids’ Link is a behavioral health triage service and referral network. The program is offered in collaboration with Gateway Healthcare, Lifespan, Hasbro Children's Hospital and Bradley Hospital. Kids’ Link RI is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help triage children and youth in need of mental health services and refer them to treatment providers. 1-855-543-5465
• Parent Coach RI is a free 30-day text messaging service that provides parents/caregivers with helpful tips and information to support the youth in their lives through mental and behavioral challenges. tinyurl.com/3fekw78w
• PreventSuicideRI.org for additional state and national resources, training opportunities, and suicide data.
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention focuses on eliminating the loss of life from suicide through prevention programs, public education, fundraising for suicide research and programs, and reaching out to those who have lost someone to suicide.