Youth Suicide Prevention
Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among Iowans aged 10–24. At Employee & Family Resources (EFR), we’re committed to changing that.
As the lead Youth Suicide Prevention Agency in Polk County, we provide no-cost suicide prevention training and resources for organizations serving young people throughout Polk County.
If you’re outside Polk County, please reach out—we’ll work to accommodate your needs.
You are not alone
Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you.
Why It Matters: Empowering Our Community to Save Lives
“Are you thinking about suicide?” may be the hardest question you ever have to ask. Yet open, honest conversation can be a lifeline—normalizing these experiences and reminding those who are struggling that they’re not alone.
Here’s a closer look at the reality of suicide in Iowa—and why it’s crucial we keep talking.
leading cause of death for Iowans aged 10-24
as many people died by suicide than in alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes
%
how much Iowa's suicide rate has increased over the past 20 years
%
of US adults believe suicide can be prevented
Who We Serve:
Any organization or professional who works with youth including:
- Nonprofits and community groups
- Schools and educators
- Counselors and social workers
- Clinicians and providers
- Faith-based organizations
Trainings are offered at no cost for those located in Polk County. If you’re outside Polk County, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll work with you on training options.
Customizable Trainings Available
- Delivery: In-person or virtual training
- Length: Typically 2 hours (can be customized to your needs)
- Focus: Risk factors, warning signs, safety planning, and best practices for suicide prevention
- Approach: Evidence-based tools like the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) and strategies for screening and intervention
Warning Signs & Risk Factors Training
Learn about the risk factors and warning signs of suicide for children and teens. Discuss the myths and facts of suicide and learn how to recognize when an individual needs help.
What to Do: Suicide Risk Screening Training
Discover the evidence-based suicide risk screening tool, C-SSRS, and learn how to conduct a fast, effective screen. Understand what to do when an individual screens “low,” “moderate”, or “high” risk.
Staying Safe: Safety Planning for Individuals At Risk Suicide Training
Understand the importance of safety planning for an individual that may be at-risk for suicide. Learn how to create a safety plan while connecting the individual to help.
Youth & Suicide: What Caregivers Should Know Training
Learn how you can play a role in mental health promotion, supporting youth in your community. Understand the facts about suicide and effective prevention strategies.
Partner with Us to Prevent Youth Suicide:
Contact our Youth Suicide Prevention Grant Coordinator, Hayl Bergeland (MS, CRS-A/D), to schedule a training or discuss your organization’s needs.
Iowa-Based Suicide Prevention Resources
Your Life Iowa:
24/7 support and educational resources—whether its drugs, alcohol, gambling, suicidal thoughts or other mental health concerns.
Helpline
Call: (855) 581-81111
Text: (855) 895-8398
Online Resources:
Iowa CASA:
Iowa has 22 victim service programs offering resources, support, counseling, and housing options to anyone affected by sexual violence—including survivors, friends, and family.
You can request interpretation if English isn’t your first language, and anyone in the state can access services. Advocates will travel within their service area to meet survivors’ needs, and culturally specific programs are available.
Helpline
Call: 1-800-770-1650
Text: “IowaHELP” to 2021
Online Resources:
Iowa Victim Services:
24/7 support to individuals that have experienced violence. Can connect to resources, sources of support, or victim services programs.
Helpline
Call: 1-800-770-1650
Online Resources:
Foundation 2 Crisis Services:
Provides prevention and intervention for people of all ages. Whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, thoughts of suicide other crises, or concerned for someone you know, trained counselors are here to help 24/7. Services area available at no cost.
Online Resources:
988:
Free, 24/7 confidential support for people in distress, prevention crisis and resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
Online Resources:
National Suicide Prevention Resources
988:
Free, 24/7 confidential support for people in distress, prevention crisis and resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
Online Resources:
Crisis Text Line:
Global text line that provides free and confidential support through text messages.
Online Resources:
Blackline:
BlackLine provides a space for peer support, counseling, witnessing and affirming the lived experiences to folxs who are most impacted by systematic oppression with an LGBTQ+ Black femme lens.
Online Resources:
Trevor Project:
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
Online Resources:
Trans Lifeline: Hotline:
Phone line/crisis help line and nonprofit organization that provides support to trans people in crisis- for the trans community, by the trans community. English and Spanish call line available.
Helpline
Call:
- US: (877) 565-8860
- Canada: (877) 330-6366
Online Resources:
Know the Signs:
Though suicide warning signs can be subtle, they are there. By recognizing these signs, knowing how to start a conversation and where to turn for help, you have the power to make a difference – the power to save a life.
Online Resources:
Suicide Prevention Resouce Center:
Develops broad-based support for suicide prevention by reducing the stigmatization of suicide, advocating for change in policies and practices, and raising awareness about suicide. Educational resources, online courses, and recommendations for local suicide prevention infrastructure are available.
Online Resources:
SAMHSA:
Suicide prevention resources and support for you, someone you know, and prevention strategies and approaches.
Online Resources:
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention:
AFSP is a voluntary health organization that gives those affected by suicide a nationwide community empowered by research, education and advocacy to take action against this leading cause of death.
Receive suicide prevention education, practical information for immediately after a loss, get help, make a difference, and connect with a community passionate about saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.