In a timely move during Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has launched the NC Black Youth Suicide Prevention Action Plan to confront the distressing rise in suicide rates among Black youth and young adults, as reported by NCDHHS. According to the NCDHHS, disproportionate numbers of Black individuals within the 10-24 age range are presenting at emergency departments for suicide attempts or thoughts of self-harm, making it clear that action is critically necessary.
While releasing the action plan, Kelly Crosbie MSW, LCSW, Director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services made it known that "a community-led, ground-up approach is essential to address the increase in suicide rates among Black youth and young adults," highlighting the urgent need for a robust and culturally sensitive support network which to many in the community, is sorely lacking yet the plan is comprehensive, targeting six key objectives including building the Community of Practice and Education (COPE) initiative to champion community-level suicide prevention, strengthening mental health services, and enhancing awareness and training tailored for Black youth, the details derived from NCDHHS.
Several culturally relevant strategies such as expanded training for respected community members like barbers, who can play pivotal roles in prevention efforts, are part of the action plan. Additionally, significant events like the Stronger Together Conference slated for September 20 in Rocky Mount, encourage cultural connection and community healing. The conference, which is free and open for registration on the NCDHHS website, aims to unite youth, young adults, and advocates for a day of learning, healing, and community building.
The NCDHHS also offers comprehensive crisis support which includes the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offering confidential help 24/7, and the Peer Warmline at 1-855-PEERS NC, where individuals can talk to a peer support specialist who offers guidance and support from a place of shared experience, this in conjunction with tools like mobile crisis teams and community crisis centers which serve as an accessible alternative to hospital emergency rooms the range of support available reflects a deep understanding of the various touchpoints required in a holistic approach to crisis management, according to the NCDHHS release.
