CONTENTS

About This Course

Table of Contents

1. The Nature and Scope of Suicide
2. Recognizing the Progressive Development of Suicide
3. Substance Abuse as a Major Contributor to Suicide
4. Suicide Across the Life Span
5. Special Populations and Suicide Risk
6. Prevention and Early Intervention for Suicide and Substance Abuse Problems

Supplements
References
Resources

Holding the Lifeline
A Guide to Suicide Prevention

Suicide Prevention Strategies

A few effective suicide prevention interventions at the community level are described below and should be combined to maximize results.

Use Suicide Prevention Hotlines

Suicide prevention hotlines, crisis centers, and other emergency responses are designed to respond to crises on a case-by-case basis. These and other lifesaving methods are essential. One example of this type of hotline is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK), which is supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Create Safer Environments

Suicide prevention also involves changing the environment affecting all individuals whether they are at risk or not. For example, by changing social mores to eliminate stigma regarding treatment for mental illness and substance abuse, society is also taking steps to prevent suicidal behaviors. Regulating dosages of drugs that can be used for non-medical purposes, including suicide, and teaching families with members at risk how to safe-proof their homes by restricting access to dangerous household chemicals helps deter impulsive suicides.