Zero Suicide Initiative

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The purpose of this program is to improve the system of care for those at risk for suicide by implementing a comprehensive, culturally informed, multi-setting approach to suicide prevention in Indian health systems. This award represents a continuation of the Indian Health Service (IHS) effort to implement the Zero Suicide approach in Indian Country. The intent of this announcement is to initiate a new, or build upon the previous, Zero Suicide Initiative efforts. Existing efforts have focused on foundational learning of the key concepts of the Zero Suicide framework, technical assistance, and consultation for several American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) Zero Suicide communities. As a result of these efforts, both the unique opportunities and challenges of implementing Zero Suicide in Indian Country have been identified. To best capitalize on opportunities and surmount such challenges, this program focuses on the core Seven Elements of the Zero Suicide model as developed by the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) at https://zerosuicide.edc.org/toolkit/zero-suicide-toolkit: 1.   Lead – Create and sustain a leadership-driven, safety-oriented culture committed to dramatically reducing suicide among people under care. Include survivors of suicide attempts and suicide loss in leadership and planning roles; 2.   Train – Develop a competent, confident, and caring workforce; 3.   Identify – Systematically identify and assess suicide risk among people receiving care; 4.   Engage – Ensure every individual has a pathway to care that is both timely and adequate to meet his or her needs. Include collaborative safety planning and restriction of lethal means; 5.   Treat – Use effective, evidence-based treatments that directly target suicidal thoughts and behaviors; 6.   Transition – Provide continuous contact and support, especially after acute care; and, 7.   Improve – Apply a data-driven, quality improvement approach to inform system changes that will lead to improved patient outcomes and better care for those at risk.

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