Missouri’s Suicide Rate Drops While National Rate Rises

Missouri’s suicide rate has dropped at the same time the national rate has gone up in the most recent year for which numbers are available. The State Mental Health Department says programs developed with a federal grant might have led to that. The Legislature has asked for a new suicide prevention program for the state. The Department will give it one next month. Department Medical Director Joseph Parks says its recommendations are being tested. The Department is asking the Legislature for $500,000 next year to implement policies.