DHSS Press Release

PRELIMINARY CDC REPORT RELEASED ON YOUTH SUICIDES IN DELAWARE

NEW CASTLE (Aug. 9, 2012) – The Department of Health and Social Services has released a preliminary report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on its epidemiological investigation of youth suicidal behavior in Kent and Sussex counties and recommendations for potential strategies for community and state leaders to use to prevent future deaths.

State officials contacted the CDC in March 2012 following several suicide deaths. As part of their ongoing investigation, CDC researchers gathered data about fatal and nonfatal suicidal behavior in adolescents and young adults (age 13-21) in Kent and Sussex counties. During the investigation, the review period was extended to include the period Jan.1, 2012, to May 4, 2012.

In the report, the CDC team presented preliminary recommendations on potential strategies for community and state leaders to use to prevent future deaths, including:

• Periodic mental health awareness training for individuals in youth-serving organizations to help identify young people at risk.
• Developing partnerships to help address the needs of young people through the gathering and monitoring of health data and through youth programs.
• Review evidence-based suicide prevention strategies for young people.
• Continued implementation of the CDC media guidelines for reporting on suicide.

Accompanying this release, are the complete preliminary report from the CDC, and training, counseling and evaluation strategies in use by the state Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families.

For more information from state officials, contact the appropriate state agency.

For more on the national perspective from the CDC, contact Senior Press Officer Gail Hayes at (770) 488-4902.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.