The 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention introduces a comprehensive, 10-year plan designed to reduce suicide rates and support individuals at risk. The strategy, which emphasizes a whole-of-society approach, works across national, state, tribal, local, and territorial levels and is built on public and private sector partnerships. The plan is driven by four strategic directions: community-based prevention, treatment and crisis services, research and quality improvement, and health equity in suicide prevention.
The strategy aims to identify and support at-risk individuals, reduce reattempts, and promote long-term recovery. Importantly, it integrates the voices of those with lived experience, ensuring that prevention efforts are grounded in real-world insights and practical solutions.
Each of the four strategic directions outlined in the plan offers a unique approach to addressing suicide:
1. Community-Based Suicide Prevention: Enhances outreach and builds resilience at the community level.
2. Treatment and Crisis Services: Focuses on accessible care and crisis intervention for individuals facing heightened suicide risk.
3. Surveillance, Quality Improvement, and Research: Encourages evidence-based approaches and improves data collection to understand trends and impacts.
4. Health Equity in Suicide Prevention: Ensures that marginalized communities receive equitable access to suicide prevention services.
This national framework encourages collaboration at all levels of society and calls on government agencies, healthcare providers, and communities to actively engage in suicide prevention efforts.
To learn more about how this strategy can help protect vulnerable individuals and communities, explore the full report here.