Suicide and mental health are top health concerns that have been identified in our communities. One person dies by suicide every 12 minutes in the United States making it one of the leading causes of death1. Idaho has one of the highest rates of suicide in the nation and is 50% above the national average1.
Therefore, St. Luke’s is leading a study of suicide prevention techniques in adults and adolescents. Known as the Suicide Prevention Among Recipients of Care (SPARC) trial, it will compare two proven kinds of follow-up support to help prevent suicide after people leave the hospital or clinic. The supports include safety planning with phone call follow-up support from a suicide prevention hotline versus safety planning with caring contacts text messages or email supports from a suicide prevention hotline.
1Stone DM, Simon TR, Fowler KA, et al. Vital Signs: Trends in State Suicide Rates — United States, 1999–2016 and Circumstances Contributing to Suicide — 27 States, 2015. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention - MMWR - Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 2018;67(22):617-624.
The Covid-19 pandemic has caused increases in mental health concerns in our communities and healthcare workers.
In the Mental Health Among Patients, Providers, and Staff (MHAPPS) Study, St. Luke’s will see how many health care workers and patients are experiencing mental distress such as anxiety, loneliness, depression, stress, or suicidal thoughts. The MHAPPS study will also compare two versions of text message support for patients and healthcare workers with mental distress to see which works better.
This work is primarily supported through a research grant from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI®). The St. Luke’s Foundation also provides financial support. If you would like to learn more about how to support these projects with a charitable gift, please contact the St. Luke’s Health Foundation at (208) 381-5355 or by email.
The Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline provides 24/7 free and confidential crisis intervention, emotional support, problem-solving, and referrals to local resources for persons at risk for suicide and for those concerned about them.
You do not have to be in crisis to call.
NOTE: The Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline is a member of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and is taking the 988 calls for Idaho as part of the national network of crisis call centers. It is a national line, but the people you'll speak to live here in Idaho.