Ask the Question. ACT to Prevent Suicide

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2018

During October and November of 2017, Chesterfield County and the Chesterfield Suicide Awareness and Prevention Coalition worked to raise awareness about the risk of suicide in adolescents and young adults through a multi-faceted, coordinated community-wide campaign. The goal of the campaign, Ask the Question. Act to Prevent Suicide., was to reduce the stigma associated with mental health conditions and encourage people of all ages to reach out for help – for themselves and for loved ones. Often people, and particularly young people, are uncomfortable reaching out for help. And, those concerned about them, their friends and family, also are unsure of what to do. The county and the coalition hoped that through educational efforts they could help those who are struggling, or even contemplating suicide, to connect with people who can recognize warning signs and get them help. The key message is that suicide is preventable, but people need to act. Suicide prevention is a focus area for Chesterfield County government and schools, and many non-profits and other community organizations. This campaign filled in a gap for a coordinated approach in increasing community awareness, and cooperation within the county in addressing a shared concern.