UNC initiative aims to reduce suicides in all 100 NC counties
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill launched a statewide program to expand and improve mental health resources in all 100 counties.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth ages 10 to 18 in North Carolina and the third leading cause of death for those ages 19 to 34, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. People who survive attempted suicide require psychological and, often, physical care.
Carolina Across 100, UNC's five-year initiative to form relationships in all 100 of North Carolina's counties, is partnering with the UNC Suicide Prevention Institute to lower the number of suicides across the state.
The groups will join forces with local and government agencies, schools, universities, health providers and faith- and community-based organizations to identify the specific mental health needs of people in various communities across the entire state.
According to a statement from UNC, the Suicide Prevention Institute "will provide participating communities with expertise in selecting the proven interventions that best suit their communities, and then help implement those interventions in an effective and sustainable way."
"Carolina Across 100 is tackling the critical challenges facing the people of North Carolina," said UNC Chancellor Kevin M. Guskiewicz. "By partnering with local communities and listening to one another, we are finding solutions and collaborating to develop answers together. Suicide is destroying families across our state and this new endeavor will work to address the urgent mental health challenges at its root."
Dr. Patrick Sullivan, director of the Suicide Prevention Institute, said, "My team and I are extremely grateful for the opportunity to work with Carolina Across 100 on community-based initiatives to prevent suicide. The problem is urgent, and these partnerships offer a fast and effective way to make a difference."
Communities can apply to participate in the program between June 13 and July 28. The application is available online.
Statewide mental health and crisis care is available by phone. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for immediate help from someone who cares.
