Missouri Receives Federal Grant to Combat Youth Suicide

Missouri has received a federal grant to help youth suicide prevention efforts. More than 700 Missourians die each year as a result of suicide and another 6,700 receive emergency care after attempting to take their own lives. Bob Bax with the State Department of Mental Health says suicide is a national problem, but it’s a huge concern in Missouri where the rate of suicide is higher than the national average. Missouri applied for, and is now receiving, a $400,000 federal grant to focus on youth suicide prevention and early intervention involving those under the age of 24. The money will help fund public/private partnerships at the community level.