1. Bev Marquez, Chief Executive Officer
November 3, 2017

2. 844.493.TALK(8255) www.RMCrisisPartners.org
Youth Suicide Stats
Suicide is the 1st leading cause of death in those aged in Colorado
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death in those aged in Colorado
A study done by Columbia University in 1990 showed that suicide is “contagious”
People aged are 2X-4X more prone to this contagion than other age groups
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have demonstrated that the period after emergency interventions is one of heightened risk for suicide, with significant numbers of deaths occurring following discharge from either an emergency department or inpatient hospitalization
TALK(8255)

3. Youth Suicide Stressors
Social Standards
Social Pressures
Grades/Performance
TALK(8255)

4. 844.493.TALK(8255) www.RMCrisisPartners.org
Suicide Screening
Ask each individual if they are having suicidal thoughts today or if they have ever had suicidal thoughts. If the answer is yes, move to secondary screening questions
Secondary Screening Questions:
Does the client have a plan for suicide/homicide?  Yes    No     Maybe (same for all below)
Does the client have any past attempts?
Does the client have a significant mental health condition?
Does the client present with intent to die?
Does the client have a substance use problem?
Does the client present as irritable, agitated or aggressive?
If answer is yes to any of the above questions, move to the suicide assessment
TALK(8255)

5. 844.493.TALK(8255) www.RMCrisisPartners.org
Suicide Assessment
Assess for suicide risk  based on the 4 facets of: Desire, Capability, Intent, and Buffers
Desire includes exploring:
Strength of thoughts
Psychological pain
Hopelessness
Helplessness
Perceived Burden
Capability includes exploring:
Previous attempts
Exposure to another’s suicide
Availability of means
Currently intoxicated
Mood changes
Substance use
Anxiety
Decreased sleep
Out of touch with reality
Intent includes exploring
A suicide plan
Preparatory behaviors
Expressed intent to die
Buffers include exploring:
Immediate supports
Social supports
Core Values/beliefs
Future Plans
Ambivalence for Living
TALK(8255)

6. 844.493.TALK(8255) www.RMCrisisPartners.org

7. Resources Second Wind Fund General Information: 720.962.0706
Colorado Crisis Services TALK (8255) Text “TALK” to
Second Wind Fund
General Information:
Referral: