Charting the Future of Suicide Prevention: A 2010 Progress Review of the National Strategy and Recommendations for the Decade Ahead

• NCJ Number: 244430
• Date Published: August 2010
• Length: 62 pages
• Grant Number(s): 5 U79 SM57392-05)
• Sponsoring Agency: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Admin (SAMHSA); Suicide Prevention Resource Ctr
• Corporate Author: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
• Sale Source: Suicide Prevention Resource Ctr
• Publication Format: Document (Online)
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description; Policy
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This report reviews developments in the field of suicide prevention in the 9 years since the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention (NSSP) was published in 2001.

Abstract

This analysis of NSSP's implementation and impact identifies the areas of most important progress as well as the critical areas that have not been addressed. In addition, it discusses new issues or initiatives that have emerged to claim attention or offer solutions since the NSSP was announced. The intent of this report is to inform discussions about future initiatives for achieving the ultimate NSSP policy goal, i.e., to reduce the morbidity and mortality of suicidal behaviors. Overall, the report concluded that as of 2010, nearly 9 years after NSSP's release, the suicide prevention movement has made significant progress toward its goals. Perhaps the foremost achievement is the embracing of suicide prevention initiatives at the community level across the Nation. These community efforts have been inspired and supported by suicide survivors, committed processionals, research and evaluation, and public and private funding. It also appears that suicide is a topic more easily discussed within families and among the general public. This openness makes it easier for some people to seek help for mental health issues. Still, many challenges remain. Discrimination and negative attitudes persist toward those with mental illness, those who seek mental health services, and those contemplating or attempting suicide. Also, some of the increase in public discourse may have inadvertently lowered societal constraints for those at risk who are reluctant to seek medical help. The challenge ahead is to organize and strengthen a viable, sustainable suicide prevention movement that can reduce suicide rates and suicidal behaviors. The recommendations in this review should refine the strategies and goals originally established by the NSSP. Appended summary of recommendations and NSSP goals and objectives