Suicide Prevention | Endowment Fund
The Suicide Prevention Endowment Fund was established in 2004 to ensure trained staff members are available 24/7 to help individuals who have suicidal thoughts.
Suicide is a public health crisis. Inside Portage County, 21 percent of the coroner cases in one year were attributed to suicide. Each year, more than 30,000 Americans take their own lives. Another 500,000 visit emergency rooms for self-inflicted injuries.
Research shows a strong link between suicide and depression. Estimates indicate 90 percent of those who die by suicide have an existing mental illness or a substance abuse challenge at the time of death.
First responders to those in crisis must have the necessary skills to save lives. Suicidal action is initiated in a point of crisis when pain and emotions are unbearable. Highly qualified, well-trained counselors are the key to diffusing the crisis.
Suicide is preventable.
Suicide Prevention Success Story:
– A CPS Professional
It wasn’t the first time she had reached the end of her rope. Her feelings of helplessness and despair were always present. Alone, depressed and facing eviction made her view life as an equal alternative to death. The call to the hotline sparked hope with the first responders – this person can be helped. She was admitted into the Crisis Intervention Services’ residential program, began intensive therapy and attended support groups. Thanks to continued counseling from Coleman Professional Services, her view on life has changed. She remains involved in group and peer support activities and she has created some valuable friendships.
