Social Work Abstracts

Youth Suicide

The 1999 publication of the “Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Prevent Suicide” gave formal, national recognition to suicide as a public health priority. The comprehensive and broad plans outlined in this strategy are grounded in evaluation-based research and delineate models for suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention that are reflective of social work standards and values. Particularly in relation to youth suicide, the national strategy calls attention to the key roles community gatekeepers and caregivers play in youth suicide awareness, prevention, and intervention. Because social work as a profession is intrinsically connected with the entire children’s services delivery system, it is in a position to make important contributions to the growing body of knowledge about evidence-based interventions for youth suicide prevention. Social workers’ expertise is also critical in the formulation of public policies and legislation that advance the efficacy of public health initiatives that address youth suicide prevention.