Kate Bergmann, Safety and Risk Coordinator, Southwest Health
Every day, suicide affects hundreds of lives across the globe. It robs families of loved ones, young ones of their futures, workplaces of their colleagues, and communities of their people.
Zero Suicide is the belief that no suicide is fated. Deaths by suicide are preventable for individuals under the care of a health or behavioral health provider. The Zero Suicide Initiative is a transformational framework for health systems that aspire to create safer suicide care. Southwest Health has committed to the Zero Suicide Initiative.
A review of studies analyzing this clinical scenario estimated that 45% of those dying by suicide saw their primary care physician the month before their death. Contrary to belief, those at risk for suicide are not disconnected from healthcare, but these individuals slip through gaps in the healthcare system.
To close this gap, we have to talk about suicide. Southwest Health screens individuals for suicide and depression to open the lines of communication with those at risk. Southwest Health collaborates with at-risk individuals in creating safety crisis plans. We also work to treat suicide directly and not only focus on mental health or addictions.
Southwest Health’s commitment to becoming a Highly Reliable Organization (HRO) supports the Zero Suicide Initiative. According to the Joint Commission, High Reliability means consistent excellence in quality and safety across all services maintained over long periods. To become an HRO, an organization must commit to moving toward zero harm, develop a safety culture, and continuously look for areas of learning and improvement.
Southwest Health has taken the HRO components to their Zero Suicide commitment. By engaging staff, we have learned, educated, and trained staff on recognizing, communicating with, and treating at-risk individuals and have also improved our processes and staff training. In the last year, Southwest Health has already made strides in closing the gaps individuals at risk for suicide fall through.
How can you help an individual at risk for suicide? The best way is to open the lines of communication by asking them, “Do you have plans for suicide?” Asking this question does not increase their risk of suicide. If they do have a plan, never leave them alone. Listen and talk to them and commit to finding them help. This may be through the local emergency department or by calling/texting 988 to reach the 24/7 suicide and crisis line. Your courage to ask and listen to the individual could save their life.
One life lost is too many. According to Prevent Suicide Wisconsin, the suicide rate in Wisconsin has increased by 40% in the last few years. According to the CDC, suicide is now the second leading cause of death among youth and adults ages 10-24. We know some of the biggest questions you may have are, “What are the signs of suicide?”, and “What should I do if I think someone is suicidal?”
We all have a role to play in preventing suicide. Have you ever had someone comment on wanting to take their own life or talk about suicide? When someone talks about suicide, knowing what to do, what to say, or how to help can be challenging. At Southwest Health, we believe in ‘zero suicide’, and we all play a role in providing help.
It is very important to remember to take care of yourself. Caring for loved ones with suicidal thoughts and behaviors is incredibly challenging. You may have done everything in your power to keep your loved one safe from suicide, but if they still take their own lives, please remember it is not your fault. It is imperative that you find support for yourself. Some ways to get this support and engage in self-care include practicing healthy coping skills, getting support from friends, family, and community groups, and obtaining help from a professional.
Southwest Health Behavioral Services provides outpatient care, including comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, help to cope with illness and other difficulties, help understanding and learning coping strategies, and help to change unhealthy thoughts and behaviors.
If you have any questions about the services we can offer, please get in touch with Southwest Health Behavioral Services at (608) 348-3656.
