Suicide prevention model used in Colorado schools led to 29% decrease in attempts: study

Yahoo

21-02-2025

DENVER (KDVR) — Colorado was recognized for its efforts in youth suicide prevention by participating in a study funded by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, according to Sources of Strength, a Colorado-based youth mental promotion and suicide prevention program.
The study published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine centered around the Sources of Strength prevention model.
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The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment partnered with the University of Rochester and the University of North Carolina to implement the model to help combat the increase in suicide attempts and fatality rates among adolescents and young adults.
Sources have been committed to helping prevent youth suicide for 30 years and institute its model by training student leaders to utilize peer social influence. Sources said it aims to transform school environments and empower students to create cultures of hope, help and strength.
'Young people have a tremendous power to create positive transformation in their schools and communities,' said Scott LoMurray, CEO of Sources of Strength. 'When students and caring adults partner together and are empowered to create protective communities of connection, belonging and well-being, they are not only preventing crises but are actively cultivating the conditions of a well world. This study is a pivotal moment for youth mental health and suicide prevention.'
The study spanned across 20 high schools in Colorado and involved 6,500 students. Within those groups, Sources trained 226 student leaders and 79 adult advisors on how to implement the Sources model.
Sources said the study discovered key findings including:
The program reduced suicide attempts by 29%
The program built stronger, connected schools where students felt seen and supported
Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people aged 10-24
The model supported students from different demographics regardless of gender, race and ethnicity
The program is looking to expand into studies of those who have recently experienced sexual violence, as separate support must be developed for those individuals
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Sources partners with thousands of elementary, middle and high schools across the country and in some Canadian provinces. The organization also works with universities, LGBTQ+ centers and organizations, cultural community centers, faith-based groups, detention centers and the military.
To access the study or for more information on the program, visit the Sources of Strength website.
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