Umatter was developed by a coalition of professionals and survivors to provide tools and support around the tragedy of suicide. When this unspeakable loss occurs, people struggle with how to respond, what to say, and how to prevent it in the future. Umatter for Communities works with professionals in education, law enforcement, fire & rescue, emergency care, social services, mental health, faith services, health care, & youth services to address and prevent the tragedy of suicide.
Suicide in New England is a growing public health issue. VT has the highest rate of death by suicide in New England and the 7th highest in the US. Suicide rates in MA have nearly doubled since 04. NH's gun suicide rate was 4X that of MA. Studies done on suicide prevention work supports the need for increased coordination between health care, education, and other human service systems. A good system of suicide prevention care requires a strong, multi-pronged community effort.
Umatter for Communities provides trainings for professionals in education, law enforcement, fire and rescue, emergency care, social services, mental health, faith services, health care, and youth services to increase knowledge, awareness and skills for suicide prevention, and to develop suicide prevention protocols which strengthen their response. Umatter will create a prepared culture in New England communities with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes to address the issue of suicide.
This program educates professionals in law enforcement, fire and rescue, emergency care, social services, mental health, faith services, health care, youth services, counseling, and funeral services to increase their knowledge, awareness and skills for suicide prevention. Umatter for Communities creates a "prevention- prepared" community, ready to prevent suicide and/or respond should such a tragedy happen.
