Who We Are – SPIN Suicide Prevention of the Inland Northwest

Our Mission

SPIN exists to reduce the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health in our region through education and awareness events and to reduce suicide deaths.

Over 45,000 people die by suicide each year in the U.S. and suicide deaths are higher in our area than most places across the state and the country. Both Idaho and Washington have suicide rates 1-2 times higher than national averages and have for years. Research shows that proactive education and awareness decrease stigma, encourage individuals to reach out for help, and help connect people to resources to prevent crisis situations. SPIN uses those research-based interventions in our region to work to reduce suicide deaths and remind our community that there is HOPE.

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Increase public awareness of suicide as a serious problem in our region.

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Provide suicide prevention information and education through training, conferences, and community events.

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Help remove the stigma associated with suicide and mental illness.

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Support survivors, area clinicians, and providers along with schools, colleges, and universities to increase knowledge and skills related to suicide prevention, intervention, and referral to appropriate services.

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Provide content expertise to regional service providers, including law enforcement, schools, colleges, and local behavioral health and medical providers as required.

In order to meet our goals, SPIN takes advantage of as many opportunities as possible to be present at community events.

We are a growing group with varying experiences who care about mental health and suicide prevention on both a personal and community health level, challenging stigma and starting conversations, while at the same time supporting those who have been touched by suicide and are looking for reassurance that they are not alone.

We work from a macro level to increase prevention efforts and education in our area. SPIN utilizes flexibility, creativity, research, and many partnerships to move the needle on suicide deaths.

Research shows that proactive education and awareness decrease stigma, encourage individuals to reach out for help, and help connect people to resources to prevent crisis situations. There are no other dedicated suicide prevention projects or groups in the Twin County footprint. While other programs impact suicide rates by proxy, SPIN is largely the only organization that offers services specific to suicide prevention. We help to fill a gap that may not otherwise be filled.

Our Board