(Waupun) Agnesian HealthCare is expanding their suicide screening age groups. The healthcare provider has been utilizing a screening tool called the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale. The tool was designed to screen not only adults but also youth, ages eight to 17, regardless of their reason for seeking care. The series of yes-and-no questions, using clear, plain language, has been saving lives in 45 countries around the world. The tool includes a maximum of six questions to quickly and simply identify whether someone might be at risk and needs help. The actual number of questions used depends on each individual’s answers, and there are several versions of the questions geared to specific populations, including friends, neighbors and family members. Beginning next month, Agnesian HealthCare will begin screening patients ages eight and above during hospital visits, including the emergency department and inpatient units, using this tool.
Local Crisis Intervention Services: (920) 929-3535
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-TALK
Text HOPELINE t 741-741
In emergencies, call 911
If you would like to learn more about our community’s efforts to address this serious health issue, sign up for training to learn how to help those considering suicide or would like to volunteer to help one of our many efforts to decrease suicide, such as YScreen and Destination Zero, please visit www.CSIFDL.org.
