While I breathe, I hope : South Carolina strategy for suicide prevention 2018-2025

Abstract

Suicide is a public health issue in South Carolina, but research indicates these deaths are preventable so long as members within a wide range of communities embrace their roles in a unified effort. We can fight suicide by creating suicide care pathways throughout our communities, state agencies, and organizations serving youth and adults that are evidence-based, data-driven, and collaborative in nature. The details of this plan address what we can do on individual, interpersonal, community and societal levels to ensure that those among us struggling with suicidal thoughts feel safe to discuss their worries and illnesses openly, are encouraged to seek the help they need, have access to quality mental and physical health care, and are protected by their friends, families and peers as they valiantly pursue recovery.