Washington State Youth Suicide Prevention Program: Evaluation of Community Networks in Eight Washington Counties

In 2004 data were gathered via telephone interviews with 44 representatives from 8 Washington counties in an assessment of key factors associated with successful suicide prevention networks & recommendations for improving & sustaining these efforts. 88% of informants from successful counties & 45% from less successful counties reported the existence of an organized youth suicide prevention effort. The length of time activities have occurred in a county did not appear to be a factor in establishing an organized effort. However, county size seemed to be somewhat of a factor. Recommendations are made concerning public awareness, program design, community collaboration, & long-term planning.