View of Capitol Rotunda from inside Capitol

Preventing Suicide among Youth and Young Adults: Programs and Policies in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s suicide rate among youth continues to exceed the national average, and recent data show that 1 in 6 Wisconsin high school students have considered attempting suicide in the previous twelve months. Helping our communities prevent suicide in youth, and across the lifespan, requires a multi-pronged approach in our schools, homes, and workplaces.

The Evidence-Based Health Policy Project held a Capitol Briefing on strategies to prevent suicide among youth and young adults in Wisconsin. Panelists from public, academic, and non-profit organizations discussed current data, programs, and policies for lawmakers and others to consider.

With opening remarks from Representative Joan Ballweg, and with a panel featuring:

Sara Kohlbeck
Assistant Director
Comprehensive Injury Center
Medical College of Wisconsin

Kate McCoy
Evaluation Consultant, Youth Risk Behavior Survey Coordinator
Gregg Curtis
Education Consultant, School Counseling and Suicide Prevention 
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction

Valerie Donovan
Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Promotion Coordinator
University Health Services
University of Wisconsin-Madison

Lanette Walker
Youth Services Division Director
Ho-Chunk Nation Youth Services Division

Leah Rolando
Suicide Prevention Specialist
Mental Health America of Wisconsin