Suicide is a public health problem and a leading cause of death in the US. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is the second leading cause of death in people ages 10-34 in Kentucky. However, suicide can be prevented with proper education and community resources.

To raise awareness about suicide and mental health, a State Specialist at the University of Kentucky created a lesson on “Understanding Suicide.” This lesson was taught to Ohio County Homemakers at the Ohio County Extension Office. After the program, 95% of participants stated that they could recognize the risk of suicide and distinguish between misconceptions and realities related to suicide. Another 95% learned to recognize verbal and behavioral warning signs of suicide. Lastly, 100% of participants stated that they learned about mental health resources and emergency contacts for suicide within the county.

To follow up on this lesson, the Ohio County Health Coalition offered a series of mid-week mental health lunches and learned. Some of the topics included Trauma-informed care, QPR Training, substance use, and mental health.