Communities Addressing Suicide Together Highlights of CAST Activities 2011 through 2013 Mike Price November 12, 2013

Quick Facts About Suicide  Suicide is more than mental illness  Complex, rarely, if ever the cause of a single element.  Universally 4 things are known to work to reduce suicide.  Those universal approaches to suicide, population health harm reduction and education….CAST Coalitions and Resiliency (CAST PSA)

Risk Factors, Warning Signs & Protective Factors See handouts Goal to have extra funding to distribute these widely, May recruit volunteers to distribute at vigils, conferences etc, Ethical dilemma- are of debate at CAST re: showing up at events that won’t adhere to safe messaging protocols or avoid altogether

Hope & Healing in NS  Postvention Resource Manual was vetted by several professional groups and the postvention subcommittee members for two years  A culmination of Canadian Best Practices  interest in it as a model for National Framework  Request cards to minimize expense until sponsors found.

CAST Programs

Reaching Out Roll Out Plan A rollout plan is underway with a goal to have all grade 10 students to receive this well researched and safe awareness workshop.

Interpersonal Theory of Suicide  9/11  When Boston won the World Series.  Community plays a pivotal role in suicide.

Community Outreach  Incredible list of workshops, conference presentations and trainings. We have reached 100’s directly this year…read list until group looks unbearably bored.  Cast has successfully contributed to a variety of initiatives like Hypersex Project and bringing, Terry Wise Women in Wellness

Community Coalitions  Hopeful to work with NSRF to measure efficacy of CAST Coalitions.  Several changes made to make the coalitions more engaged, sustainable and advocacy focused.  Coalition Manager Role will need to be maintained through new funding and grants.  Coalition structure depends on DHA structure.

Getting Help  The TALK Steps  Mobile Mental Health Crisis Line  Emergency Department  211  Feed Nova Scotia Line  Kid’s Help Phone Website Online/Chat-counselling.aspx

 5Zat8 5Zat8