Fact:

In the United States, someone dies by suicide every 17 minutes, in many cases these deaths are preventable. 75% of rural counties in the United States with a population range of 2,500 to 20,000 lack access to a psychiatrist. (ASP, July/Aug 2005)

Fact:

Over 60 million people living in rural, remote areas face daunting challenges In accessing Mental Health care. These are reflected rural suicide rates that consistently surpass those in urban America. (Advancing Suicide Prevention, July/Aug 2005)

Fact:

Mental Health disorders are the 4th largest health priority identified by professionals in rural America. Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death in states with primarily rural areas. Males in rural areas have a 37% higher suicide rate than those in urban areas.

Contributing Factors In Rural Areas:

* Poverty
* Easy access to firearms
* Lack of support networks
* Inadequate health services
* Lack if education and cultural opportunities
* Isolation from communities, churches and families
(Fatal Connection, Harvard Injury Control Research Center)

Prevention In Rural Areas

* Education
* Early identification
* Screening
* Diagnosis
* Treatment and recovery services
* Competent professionals
* Easier access to care.

Research has shown that prevention strategies can work to reduce the likelihood that a person will attempt or commit suicide. Not only can these strategies reduce deaths and curb suicidal thoughts and behavior, they can enhance an individual’s resilience to distress. Suicide prevention can foster a community approach to caring that promotes emotional support for individuals and eliminates the stigma associated with mental health. (Suicide Prevention Resource Center – www.sprc.org)

Where To Reach People In Rural Areas

* Farm Credit Services
* Juvenile Detention Centers
* Youth and Women’s Shelters
* Unemployment Offices
* Home Health Care Settings

Resources And Links

www.sprc.org
www.afsp.org
www.advancingsp.com
www.spanusa.org
www.raconline.org/info_guides/suicide