Both lectures will be in the Indiana Cancer Research Institute, room 101. In response to the U.S. Surgeon General's call to action for states to mobilize with suicide-prevention programs, a new group in Indiana has answered that call. The Indiana Partnership to Prevent Firearm Violence, based at IUSM, is spearheading the formation of the Suicide Prevention Coalition to heighten the public's awareness about the risk factors linked to suicide, and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. In Indiana, suicide has become a public health epidemic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Indiana's suicide rate is higher than the national average.
Suicide is the ninth leading cause of death for Indiana residents.
In 1999, suicide claimed 621 Hoosier lives. Kentucky had the highest rate of suicide in the Midwest at 12.74 per 100,000. Recommend removal of all lethal weapons, including firearms from the home if a family member is depressed. Disseminate information to the public about what communities can do to protect their loved ones, such as developing strong social support networks, and providing better access to clinical interventions. Develop and implement strategies to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness, substance abuse, and suicide.