Describe the Issue or Situation.

Suicide is a serious public concern and one of the most preventable types of death. Someone dies every 11 seconds from suicide, and it is currently the 11th leading cause of death in the US in people 10-34 years of age.  In Kentucky suicide is about 21% higher than the national average, only second to accidental deaths.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association are preparing its leaders to present vital information to its members and counties about the importance of understanding warning signs and how to pursue help to combat this horrible statistic in our state. 

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

The audience was the KEHA county leaders in E5, who will be presenting this information to their homemaker groups in their respective counties. 

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

Based on the evaluation statistics, 75% of the participants were better informed about the misbeliefs and realities of suicide and were better prepared to recognize verbal warning signs for suicide.  In addition, 70% indicated that they better understood who to contact for professional help when suspecting suicide or contemplating suicide. The group related that 75% were better prepared to determine the warning signs of suicide and how to prevent suicide in their communities.  One participant shared on their evaluation that they feared that their grandson is suicidal and that the information presented was extremely helpful in preparing to deal with the situation.