Feelings of . . . loneliness. . . anxiety . . . depression . . . overwhelming stress. . .
Mental health and suicide have long been unspoken health issues in our society, including Idaho. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States and Idaho ranks #6 in the nation. The COVID-19 pandemic has aggravated the problem with many individuals experiencing increased amounts of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
A FOCUS ON PREVENTION
Recognizing this health need in our communities even before the pandemic, St. Luke’s has been steadily building its Behavioral Health services the last several years and focusing on PREVENTION.
St. Luke’s has partnered with community organizations to address issues such as homelessness and food insecurity—underlying causes that can contribute to suicide and other behavioral health issues.
Medically, behavioral health clinics have been added, hours expanded, and the number of mental health professionals has increased by 350%. When possible, patients checking in for any type of appointment complete a mental health screening. Serving teens, the Day Treatment Center provides individual, family and group therapies while also engaging kids in keeping up with their schoolwork. It is the only one of its kind in Idaho.
The Suicide Prevention Program (SPP), within Behavioral Health, is also hard at work. When identified, patients with suicidal risk leave appointments, at a minimum, with a personalized safety plan. The plan is a tool that provides actions applicable to that person to help them overcome their suicidal thoughts.
St. Luke’s Research is engaged with SPP and has embarked on two studies to identify the best follow up tools to use after establishing a safety plan. The first study is of limited scope and duration, focusing on individuals impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The second, much larger study has enlisted individuals, clinicians, local organizations, and several universities across the country. The results will be transformational in developing care because it is the first study of its kind to:
• Impact all ages.
• Be comprised of both urban AND rural patients.
• Include patients in emergency AND primary care settings.
• Occurs in a “typical” health system—not an academic center or veteran’s program.
YOU CAN HELP CLOSE THE GAP
Recognizing the value of these studies, the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) has provided significant support; however, to fully fund the studies as well as support the overall Suicide Prevention Program, your help is needed.
Your generosity in giving to the Suicide Prevention Program will ensure that all patients are screened at check in, and if appropriate, equipped with a personalized safety plan and other educational materials; provide, train, and expand access of essential staff in connecting directly with patients; and track study data determining the most effective methods of safety planning follow up. These plans will help individuals in crisis emerge from feelings of darkness to go on to live happier, healthier lives.
Thank you for investing in the health of our community!
