This episode features a compelling dialogue with Will Wagner, a master electrician and suicide attempt survivor, who shares his harrowing yet inspiring journey through mental health struggles. Wagner's narrative is a poignant reminder of the intricate interplay between personal hardship and societal expectations, as he reflects on the toxic relationships, substance abuse, and financial pressures that contributed to his emotional turmoil. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing the warning signs of mental health crises and destigmatizing discussions around suicidal thoughts, thereby fostering a culture of openness and support.

Takeaways:

• The critical importance of open conversations surrounding suicide and mental health issues.
• We explore the significant factors that lead to suicide attempts, highlighting the social context of these experiences.
• Will Wagner shares his poignant journey from a suicide attempt to finding purpose in helping others.
• The discussion reveals that many individuals facing suicidal thoughts often seek an escape from their emotional pain rather than a desire to die.
• Listeners are encouraged to recognize the subjective nature of pain, acknowledging that each person's experience is unique and valid.
• The episode underscores the necessity of seeking help, as mental health struggles can be overwhelming and isolating, yet support is available.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

In this episode of One Minute Can Save a Life, Dr. Julie Elledge shares how coaching—not therapy—can unlock motivation, resilience, and performance for veterans and their families. Drawing on decades of experience as a therapist and master certified coach, she explains how programs like Veterans Talking to Veterans empower veterans to support one another and build community-based solutions to mental health and life challenges.

Takeaways:

1. The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding the distinction between therapy and coaching, particularly in the context of mental health support.
2. The utilization of nature as a therapeutic medium for veterans is a remarkable approach that fosters healing and connection.
3. Veterans talking to veterans creates a unique support system wherein shared experiences can facilitate understanding and empathy among peers.
4. The episode underscores the critical need for effective suicide prevention strategies and highlights the role of trained coaches in this endeavor.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. mentoragility.com
2. Veterans Talking To Veterans

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

This conversation centers on hope, resilience, and the power of using lived experience to help others. If you’ve ever wondered whether your hardest moments could still lead to something meaningful, this episode offers a reminder that restoration is possible—and that pain doesn’t have to be the end of the story.

Bio

Carrie Bollock is a Jesus loving, wife, stepmom, and mom who serves as the reigning Mrs. Wyoming America. She is a licensed real estate consultant and transaction coordinator, the host of Wellness Wednesdays on 102.7 The PEAK, and the founder of Restored by Faith, a platform rooted in her personal journey of resilience and faith. Passionate about mental-health awareness and suicide prevention, she uses her testimony to remind others that restoration is possible and help connect individuals and families with life-saving resources across Wyoming and beyond. You can follow or learn more about her @carrieinwyoming on Instagram or Carrie Bollock on Facebook.

Takeaways:

1. In our discourse, we emphasize the critical importance of community support when confronting mental health challenges.
2. Carrie's journey illustrates that healing is not a linear process, but rather an ongoing commitment to restoration and connection.
3. The conversation highlights the reality of suicidal ideation, particularly in regions like Wyoming, where mental health resources are crucial.
4. Faith emerges as a pivotal element in the healing process, providing individuals with purpose and strength during difficult times.
5. We reiterate that individuals struggling with mental health should not face their challenges in isolation, but rather seek help actively.
6. The episode underscores the necessity of therapy as a vital resource for individuals grappling with emotional pain and mental health issues.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

Links:

HearNowHelp App

Takeaways:

In this podcast episode, we explore the intricate dynamics of personal development and growth.

We discuss the importance of setting clear and achievable goals to foster motivation.

The conversation emphasizes the necessity of cultivating resilience in the face of adversity.

Listeners are encouraged to embrace lifelong learning as a fundamental aspect of personal enrichment.

We examine the role of mentorship in guiding individuals towards their aspirations and ambitions.

The episode highlights the value of self-reflection in understanding one’s own motivations and behavior.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

Takeaways:

• Governor Mark Gordon emphasizes the importance of community connection in preventing suicide, especially during difficult times of the year.
• The state of Wyoming has implemented various initiatives to empower local communities to effectively address mental health and suicide prevention.
• Recent statistics indicate a promising reduction in suicide rates in several counties, attributed to increased community engagement and support.
• The podcast highlights the significance of storytelling in mental health initiatives, particularly through programs like Veterans Talking to Veterans.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Morning Consult
• Patton Veterans Project
• Helmsley Foundation
• Wyoming Department of Health
• TKB Podcast Studio

Wyoming Suicide Prevention Trainings

Suicide prevention training helps save lives. Wyoming has a large network of suicide prevention trainers and events.

https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/prevention/wivpp/suicide-prevention/wyoming-suicide-prevention-trainings/

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

Together, they reflect on the signs they wish they had recognized, the importance of open conversations about mental health, and the power of community in breaking the silence surrounding suicide. Their courage to speak out offers comfort to those who are grieving and inspiration to those seeking to make a difference.

This episode stands as a testament to love, resilience, and the belief that even in the darkest moments, connection and understanding can light the way toward healing.

Takeaways:

• The discussion emphasizes the necessity of openly communicating about mental health and suicide, especially with children.
• Recognizing the complexities of grief after a suicide and the importance of sharing memories is vital for healing.
• Parents should proactively engage in conversations about suicidal thoughts with their children, using appropriate language.
• The episode highlights that societal stigma surrounding suicide needs to be addressed to foster supportive environments.
• It is critical to remember and celebrate the lives of those lost to suicide rather than solely focusing on their deaths.
• The importance of developing coping skills and mental health awareness from a young age cannot be overstated.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

Amber shares her the details of her own journey for healing following the tragic death of her son. She introduces the concepts of ‘clean grief’ and ‘messy grief,’ providing listeners with a framework to understand the different facets of their emotional experiences and suggesting how they might consider coping with it. Her journey underscores the importance of managing feelings of guilt and regret while also affirming the potential for growth and healing in the aftermath of loss.

Amber's heartfelt account as a suicide loss survivor reveals the complexities of loss and suicide and the imperative need for open dialogue surrounding mental health. She discusses a few ways that people treat suicide loss survivors differently than those who lose a loved one to other causes of death. Her reflections emphasize the importance of connectedness and talking about suicide with one's family and community. As Amber recounts her experiences, she confronts the societal stigma surrounding suicide, noting how it often overshadows the lives of those who choose that permanent path. She offers hope, encouraging those suffering from loss and from suicidal thoughts that everything is "figureoutable."

Excerpt from Ambers Eulogy to Teagan

Teagan struggled with things that as a society, we don’t talk enough about. Mental health, substance abuse, addictions and eventually suicide. There’s a stigma attached to these things. There is shame, there is judgment. By ones self and toward them from others. I know that Teagan was desperately seeking a peace that he had tried so hard to find here on earth. I know he felt then there was no other answer, but I know he would not want anyone else to ever take the same actions he did. I feel a personal responsibility and that Teagan too, would want to spread awareness for the sake of every struggling human, especially teenagers and young adults. You are loved. You have worth. You have potential beyond your wildest imagination. There is hope. There is help. There is nothing, absolutely nothing that isn’t figuroutable. In Teagan’s name and on Teagan’s behalf, I will do my best to spread awareness, to love, to help and to lift and I invite all to do the same. 

Takeaways:

• The podcast underscores the importance of open dialogue surrounding suicide and mental health challenges, emphasizing that such conversations can foster understanding and healing.
• Amber, a suicide loss survivor, shares her journey of grief and highlights the necessity of recognizing the underlying pain behind seemingly defiant behaviors in children.
• The episode discusses the distinction between 'clean grief' and 'messy grief', illustrating the importance of managing one's thoughts and emotions in the aftermath of loss.
• Listeners are encouraged to acknowledge their feelings of regret and guilt, while also recognizing that they did the best they could with the resources and knowledge available at that time.
• Amber emphasizes the power of creating community and connection as a means of support, advocating for a proactive approach in discussing mental health issues.
• The conversation concludes with a poignant reminder that every life is valuable, and those struggling with suicidal thoughts should be reminded of their worth and the impact of their absence on loved ones.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

Jason emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and actionable strategies to combat this crisis. He discusses the significance of evidence-based practices in suicide prevention, distinguishing between general awareness of suicide and the implementation of structured intervention strategies.

Takeaways:

• The importance of understanding both intentional and unintentional injuries in suicide prevention has been emphasized during our discussions.
• Our guest, Jason Lux, highlighted how community efforts in Wyoming are diverse and impactful in addressing mental health crises.
• The need to bridge the gap between general awareness of suicide and effective intervention strategies has been identified as a crucial area for progress.
• The role of faith-based communities in suicide prevention represents a novel approach that fosters empathy and compassion towards those struggling with mental health issues.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

• Takeaways:
• The importance of creating a culture of belongingness and respect among youth is crucial to prevent violence and foster mental well-being.
• Youth experiencing hardship and mental health challenges require supportive environments that promote resilience and personal growth.
• Early intervention and integration of mental health resources within community programs can significantly enhance youth support systems.
• Communication and genuine concern from peers and adults can serve as critical lifelines for those contemplating suicide or experiencing severe distress.
• Companies mentioned in this episode:
• Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming
• Tacoma Metro Parks District
• Teton Youth and Family Services
• Central Wyoming Counseling Center
• USA Lacrosse
• Natrona County Health Department

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

• The role of a superintendent encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, similar to that of a CEO overseeing district operations.
• Mental health issues within the school system have gained more attention since the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for open discussions.
• Stigma surrounding mental health remains a significant barrier to accessing support and resources in educational settings.
• Parents must prioritize their mental health in order to effectively support their children through various challenges they may face.
• Community involvement is crucial in addressing mental health, as it is a collective responsibility rather than solely the schools' duty.
• Providing educational opportunities about mental health can foster resilience among students and encourage them to seek help when needed.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

Takeaways:

• The episode emphasizes the importance of open dialogue regarding mental health and suicide prevention.
• Sheriff Austin Brookwell shares insights from his personal and professional experiences with suicide crises.
• Training for law enforcement is crucial in addressing suicidal individuals and enhancing response effectiveness.
• The sheriff discusses the stigma surrounding mental health in rural communities and the need for more resources.
• A significant case is highlighted where timely intervention successfully prevented a suicide attempt.
• The conversation concludes with a call to action for individuals to reach out for help when struggling with mental health issues.

Links referenced in this episode:

• tkbpodcaststudio.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Washakie County
• Wash County Sheriff's office
• TKB Podcast Studio

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the significance of sharing personal stories of hardship and resilience, as they resonate deeply with listeners who may be facing similar struggles.
• It is crucial to recognize that suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, regardless of their mental health history, indicating the need for open dialogue about these issues.
• Listeners are encouraged to reach out for help when experiencing feelings of hopelessness, emphasizing the importance of connection and support from trusted individuals.
• The episode highlights the role of empathy and understanding in helping those who are struggling, advocating for a non-judgmental approach to conversations about mental health.
• A powerful message conveyed is that no feeling is final, and individuals experiencing despair must remember that their current state is temporary and changeable.
• The host and guest assert the necessity of establishing boundaries and seeking support, urging those in distress to express their needs clearly and without shame.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

The episode ultimately serves as a clarion call for sustained engagement in mental health initiatives. Baldwin's reflections on the legislative process and community dynamics illuminate the path forward, emphasizing that progress requires persistent effort and collaboration across various sectors. He urges listeners to remain vigilant in advocating for mental health resources and to actively participate in conversations that normalize discussions about mental wellness. This proactive approach is pivotal in ensuring that mental health remains a priority, fostering resilience within communities and ultimately reducing the stigma that often accompanies mental health challenges. The narrative concludes on a hopeful note, inspiring listeners to recognize the power of collective action in addressing mental health challenges and saving lives through compassionate outreach and understanding.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of shifting the conversation around mental health to reduce stigma and promote understanding.
• Listeners are encouraged to recognize that mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of age or background, and require community support.
• The discussion highlights the significance of accessible mental health resources and the need for ongoing funding and awareness initiatives.
• It is essential to foster open communication within communities to help individuals feel understood and supported in their mental health journeys.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

Takeaways:

• The importance of looking at mental health from a systems perspective cannot be overstated.
• Building community connections is essential for addressing complex issues like homelessness and mental health.
• Governor Gordon's office is focusing on collaboration across agencies to address behavioral health needs.
• Wyoming's mental health challenges have been exacerbated by the pandemic, leading to increased feelings of loneliness.
• Understanding the full impact of social issues is crucial for effective policy-making and community support.
• The shift in conversation around mental health and suicide in Wyoming is a positive sign of progress.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

Takeaways:

• The importance of asking direct questions about suicide to provide support and understanding.
• Jenny Hunter emphasizes the necessity of connectedness to foster hope among individuals.
• Survivor stories reveal that many people regret their attempts and wish to live.
• JR's Hunt for Life aims to support those affected by suicide and promote healing.
• Training individuals to ask about suicide can empower them to save lives effectively.
• Hope is critical; without it, individuals may struggle to find reasons to live.

Links referenced in this episode:

• jlh35hotmail.com
• JR's Hunt for Life
• tkbpodcaststudio.com

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

As the conversation unfolds, Governor Gordon candidly addresses the statistics surrounding suicide in Wyoming, revealing that the state has been among the top three for the past decade. He emphasizes the need for greater awareness and community action, particularly in light of changing demographics where children and teenagers are increasingly affected. The governor challenges the notion that mental health crises are solely psychiatric issues, arguing that they are often the result of overwhelming life circumstances. His insights shed light on the necessity of shifting the narrative around mental health to one that encourages openness and support rather than stigma and silence. He advocates for a community approach, urging listeners to recognize that every individual has a role in creating a supportive environment for those in distress.

The discussion culminates in the introduction of initiatives like the 'Why We Care' program, which aims to enhance mental health resources and foster a culture of caring in Wyoming. Governor Gordon calls on leaders and community members to actively engage in conversations about mental health, emphasizing that small acts of kindness and outreach can make a significant difference. The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to seek help for themselves or others and to foster a culture of connectedness that can ultimately save lives. Governor Gordon's heartfelt message resonates throughout the episode, reinforcing the importance of community, compassion, and proactive engagement in addressing mental health challenges.

Takeaways:

• Mental health awareness in Wyoming is critical due to the state's high suicide rates.
• Community support and engagement are essential for those struggling with mental health issues.
• The importance of reaching out to friends and family during times of personal crisis cannot be overstated.
• Cultural perceptions of toughness can prevent individuals from seeking necessary mental health help.
• Teaching children about mental health and safety can reduce future risks of suicide.
• Utilizing local resources, like the 988 suicide crisis line, can save lives in Wyoming.

Links referenced in this episode:

• soulshopmovement.org
• PROSPER Online Free Suicide Prevention Training DATE: THURSDAYS, FEBRUARY 6TH, 13TH, & 20TH, 2025 [FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT, THE PROGRAM REQUIRES ATTENDANCE AT ALL THREE 2-HOUR SESSIONS]TIME: 12:00PM-2:00PM MT

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

Takeaways:

• Mental health professionals, like everyone else, are human and experience personal struggles.
• Grief from suicide is often compounded by stigma and isolation from the community.
• It’s vital to talk openly about mental health to reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking behavior.
• People who die by suicide often leave their loved ones with complex emotions and grief.
• Mental health education should be prioritized in schools to promote coping skills and conversations.
• Seeking help and support should be normalized for everyone, including mental health providers.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

The discussion sheds light on the cultural acceptance of certain behaviors related to mental health, where individuals may be hesitant to acknowledge the severity of the problem until they are personally affected. Mickelson articulates the need for a shift in mindset, advocating for proactive measures that encourage individuals to seek help before reaching a crisis point. The episode also delves into the importance of fostering community ties, suggesting that creating opportunities for connection can significantly reduce the risk of suicide. Mickelson shares plans for community events designed to bring people together in informal settings, allowing for the kind of social interaction that can create a safety net for those in distress.

Ultimately, the episode serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of communication and support within communities. Both Corso and Mickelson urge listeners to be vigilant and compassionate, encouraging them to check in on friends, family, and neighbors. They reinforce the message that conversations about mental health should not be shunned but embraced, allowing for a culture where individuals feel empowered to share their struggles. By addressing the issue collectively and openly, they hope to foster an environment that not only recognizes the signs of mental health challenges but actively works to support those in need.

Takeaways:

• Suicide prevention requires community engagement and proactive measures to address mental health challenges.
• The presence of both life-oriented and death-oriented behaviors can complicate the detection of suicide risk.
• Connectedness within the community is crucial for reducing suicide rates among youth and adults.
• It is important for individuals to actively check on friends’ and neighbors' well-being.
• Cultural shifts are necessary so that self-worth is not solely tied to achievements or possessions.
• Striving for a balance in life, including social connections and self-care, is essential for mental health.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

In this episode, Natrona County Coroner James Whipps discusses his background and role in investigating deaths, with a special emphasis on suicide prevention. He shares insights into the frequency and preventability of suicides in his community, underlining the importance of public awareness, early intervention, and community involvement. Whipps elaborates on signs and symptoms of suicidal tendencies, emphasizing the need for education and proactive measures to reduce suicide rates. He also describes his involvement in various task forces aiming to mitigate preventable deaths and highlights the shift in demographic trends of suicides towards younger individuals. The conversation touches on societal attitudes towards suicide and the critical role of resilience and coping skills training in preventing such tragedies.

Meet Our Guest: Coroner James Whipps

Coroner James Whipps has been the Natrona County coroner for five years and has amassed 25 years of experience in death investigation. His diverse background spans business, military law enforcement, and medical-legal death investigation. Unlike many, Whipps has taken a proactive stance on suicide prevention, driven by a mission to reduce preventable deaths.

Understanding the Role of a Coroner

James Whipps elaborates on his role within Natrona County, explaining how his office predominantly investigates unnatural deaths while also dealing with natural deaths occurring outside medical facilities. As an elected official, Whipps is not only accountable for coroner business but also for integrating himself within the community to push forward his mission of preventing deaths that can be avoided, including suicides.

Suicide Prevention: From Response to Prevention

Whipps' journey into proactive suicide prevention began with his involvement in the Natrona County Suicide Prevention Task Force. Initially rooted in response, his role evolved as he recognized the prevalence of preventable suicides. The PROSPER initiative, which stands for the Proactive Reduction of Suicide in Populations via Evidence-Based Research, underscores his belief that addressing suicide requires more than just responding to incidents—it necessitates a comprehensive, proactive community approach.

Identifying Signals and Achieving Intervention

During the discussion, Dr. Kent Corso and Coroner Whipps highlights the importance of recognizing signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts. They reiterate that most individuals contemplating suicide display signs, albeit often cryptic, signaling their internal struggle without directly stating their intent. Common signs include expressing feelings of worthlessness or desiring death, changes in behavior, and making statements with a foreshortened future perspective.

Breaking the Stigma: Suicide is Not Just a Mental Health Issue

A significant portion of the podcast focuses on breaking the stigma associated with suicide. Whipps emphasizes that although mental health can play a role, suicide is a multifaceted social issue. He challenges the notion that suicidal ideation equates to having a mental health condition, arguing that societal and personal stressors often precipitate these thoughts.

Raising Awareness and Community Education

Awareness and education stand out as fundamental tools in suicide prevention. Whipps shares statistical insights, revealing that Wyoming has one of the highest suicide rates in the nation and even the world. He postulates that educating the community about the signs of suicidal thoughts and encouraging intervention at crucial moments can save lives.

Empowering Communities to Act

The discourse ventures into the need for community-driven solutions. The hosts discuss that even though the issue is complex and diverse, the solution lies within community involvement. Educating youth on resilience and coping skills is vital, as many underlying issues manifest during adolescence and become critical during adulthood.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In closing, Coroner Whipps asserts the need for widespread education on recognizing and addressing suicide. He encourages communities to adopt a proactive stance, emphasizing the importance of early intervention. Dr. Kent Corso echoes these sentiments and promises to delve deeper into practical solutions in future episodes.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a reminder of the impactful role each individual can play in suicide prevention. By being informed, empathetic, and ready to intervene, communities can help save lives. The discussion with Coroner James Whipps underscores the gravity of the issue and highlights that while the challenge is significant, it is not insurmountable with collective effort and awareness.

We hope this conversation inspires you to take action in your community. Stay tuned for more insights and solutions in our upcoming episodes.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

In this episode of 'One Minute Can Save a Life,' host Kent Corso speaks with Darin Westby, Director of the Wyoming Department of Transportation, about the importance of addressing mental health and suicide prevention in the workplace. Westby shares the recent tragedy of a suicide within his organization and the ensuing initiatives, such as the 'Everybody Needs a Pickup Man' campaign in Cheyenne and the Wyoming Contractors Association's yellow feather stickers, aimed at raising awareness and providing support. They discuss the significance of aligning suicide prevention methods with cultural values, especially within the tight-knit, self-reliant communities in Wyoming. Both Corso and Westby emphasize the importance of destigmatizing mental health issues, encouraging open conversations, and utilizing available resources like the 988 crisis lifeline.

Director Darin Westby's insights offer a valuable perspective on the crucial role that organizations play in addressing mental health and preventing suicide. By fostering open conversations, being culturally sensitive, and providing the right tools and support systems, workplaces can create an environment where employees feel safe and supported to seek help when needed.

This episode of "One Minute Can Save a Life" serves as a powerful reminder that mental health is a communal responsibility, and proactive efforts can make a significant impact on individuals' lives.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website

Welcome to our dedicated space where we explore innovative and community-focused strategies for reducing suicide risk. In this blog post, we'll dive into the profound work of PROSPER, a program designed by Dr. Kent Corso, a clinical psychologist, board-certified behavior analyst, and suicidologist. Learn how PROSPER is transforming how communities address suicide prevention, focusing on long-term, sustainable solutions rather than fear-based, short-term measures.

About Dr. Kent Corso and PROSPER

Hi, my name is Kent Corso. I'm a clinical psychologist, board-certified behavior analyst, and suicidologist. I help governments, organizations, and communities make sustainable strides in curbing suicide risk. About 10 years ago, I developed PROSPER, the Proactive Reduction of Suicide in Populations via Evidence-Based Research.

The Unique Approach of PROSPER

Uniquely, we help implement prevention, intervention, and postvention strategies, which reflect the values and cultural elements of each community we assist. We aim to reduce suicide risk on a long timeline. For too many years, systems have operated on a short-term basis, using fear-based, “Better Safe Than Sorry” approaches to reducing suicides.

These often result in unnecessary hospitalizations, demoralization, compromised autonomy, and the absence of real help for those in distress. PROSPER moves communities to operate not out of fear and caution, but from a place of competence and confidence. By empowering people and communities, we help individuals and families self-manage their distress, retaining the dignity and autonomy often stolen from them by fear-based suicide risk management approaches.

Addressing the Root Causes

Prosper recognizes that suicide is not a mental health problem, it's a social one, just like poverty, homelessness, crime, or bullying. This means we can't reduce suicides by relying solely on the mental health and medical systems. Successful suicide prevention requires community engagement, cooperation, and boosting connectedness.

Community Strengths and Collaborative Efforts

We have to leverage our own strengths and the power of our community. That's what this blog is all about. It is not about providing medical advice to individuals in distress but focusing on intensive, community-based grassroots efforts. We want to hear from various people who are taking the time to care about risk reduction.

Join the Movement

Listen to our podcast and learn new insights about suicide and how to reduce it. Come see how you can be part of the solution by engaging with your community and becoming an advocate for competence, confidence, and connectedness in suicide prevention.

Key Points Discussed:

- Introduction to PROSPER and its origins.

- The unique approach of PROSPER focuses on prevention, intervention, and postvention strategies.

- The importance of long-term solutions versus short-term, fear-based approaches.

- Understanding that suicide is a social issue, requiring community engagement.

- Empowering communities to build competence and confidence to address suicide risk.

- Emphasis on grassroots efforts and the role of community strength and collaboration.

Listen to our podcast to gain new insights into suicide and how we can work together to reduce it. Learn how you can engage with your community and be part of the solution.

Thank you for joining us in this pivotal movement towards sustainable suicide prevention. Let's work together to foster competence, confidence, and connectedness in our communities.

For more information on mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on Prosper, go to the website