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May is
Mental Health Month

 We know that more than 90 percent of adults and 60 percent of youth who die by suicide have a diagnosable mental health or substance abuse disorder.  During National Mental Health Month, SPAN USA will be working to open minds and change policy by providing new resources including a new brochure on senior suicide and a new guide for funeral directors (developed in collaboration with SPRC).  In conjunction with National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day (May 8th), SPAN USA will continue to advocate for reauthorization of and full funding for the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act (PL 108-355) programs.  May 25-31 is Older Americans’ Mental Health Week, and SPAN USA will engage the media and policymakers to bring attention to the Stop Senior Suicide Act (S. 1854/H.R. 4897).  Most importantly, SPAN USA Field Liaisons will be working in their local communities to bring awareness to the issues of mental health and suicide prevention.

Summary of Support
Group Leader Survey

A summary of SPAN USA's survey of the leaders/facilitators of support groups for persons bereaved by suicide is available by clicking here. Many thanks to those who shared their input to make this survey possible.

National Media Focus on
Veteran Suicide

On April 21, CBS News followed up on previous reports regarding veteran suicide as part of its nightly news program. The story regarding data on how many veterans in America die by suicide and how many attempt can be found by clicking here.

On April 22, the NY Times ran a story on the VA/SAMHSA National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and how the hotline is rescuing callers and coordinating services with the VA's suicide prevention coordinators. To read the NY Times story, click here.

Community Training Available

Interested in suicide prevention presentations for your state, regional, county, or local suicide prevention coalition or group. SPAN USA staff can be booked to provide educational training and presentations at your meetings, conferences, or seminars. To learn more, click here. The Strategic Planning for Suicide Prevention training modules may be of particular interest.

Support SPAN USA: Lifekeeper Jewelry, Marketplace, & More

Remember those lost and support suicide prevention efforts by giving Lifekeeper Jewelry (charm, pin, necklace, or bracelet). Or visit the SPAN USA Marketplace for other available items such a SPAN USA Polo shirt, educational guides, suicide prevention pins and much more. Consider other things you can do to support SPAN USA.