Click to view report. In 2018, new data sources were utilized. Thus, information herein may differ from previous reports. Also, data in future iterations may vary slightly as case counts are updated and surveillance methods are refined. For questions about the report, please contact Senior Epidemiologist Derel Glashower at dglashower@miottawa.org or 616-393-5785. For media inquiries, please contact Public Information Officer Kristina Wieghmink at kwieghmink@miottawa.org or 616-494-5597.
Report Key Points
- In 2018, there were 32 deaths by suicide; the highest number in the last 20 years.
- There has been a significant increase in the annual number of suicide fatalities among Ottawa County residents.
- In 2018, death by suicide among teens was the highest in eight years.
- Among teen suicide fatalities, more deaths are occurring in younger teens.
Suicide is a serious public health problem that can have lasting harmful effects on individuals, families and communities. While its causes are complex and determined by multiple factors, the goal of suicide prevention is to reduce factors that increase risk and increase factors that promote resilience. Learn more at cdc.gov/violenceprevention/suicide
Because the overall rate of death by suicide has been increasing in Ottawa County, community partners have come together and organized the Ottawa County Suicide Prevention Coalition. The coalition’s mission is to decrease the number of suicides and the stigma associated with mental health in Ottawa County by educating the community about warning signs and prevention strategies, promoting existing suicide prevention and mental health resources, and identifying and addressing emerging issues regarding suicide and suicide prevention.
Coalition Activities
- Implemented Blue Envelope team response pilot program with Ottawa County schools.
- Facilitated a follow-up program between Ottawa County Victim’s Advocates and local organizations to ensure families suffering tragic loss have access to resources.
- Created suicide fatality review team.
- Supported the implementation of be nice. action plans in Ottawa County.
- Supported QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) trainings.
- Educated over 95 healthcare providers on suicide prevention (from multiple health systems).
For more information or how to get involved, contact Health Educator Amy Sheele at asheele@miottawa.org or 616-393-5799.
If you need help for yourself or someone else, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Talk: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) Chat: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org |
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