Affiliated organization
Shelby County Suicide
Prevention Coalition
Because every life matters, and no one should struggle alone.
What changed here
Something is working
in Shelby County
Between 2022 and 2024, the rate of suicidal ideation in Shelby County fell sharply. Across Indiana as a whole, it barely moved.
Decrease in the suicide ideation rate since 2022.
Decrease over the same two year period.
No single organization did that, and we would not claim otherwise. It is what a whole county pulling in one direction looks like: Major Health Partners investing in behavioral health, the 988 crisis line coming online, crisis intervention training for police, QPR training moving through the schools, and the suicide prevention coalition work this organization is part of.
The point is not who gets the credit. The point is that it moved, and that talking about this openly is what moved it.
Figures from the Indiana Hospital Association, reported August 2024. Statewide comparison covers the preceding two years.
If you are worried about someone
You do not need to be
a professional to help
Most people who are struggling are not reached by a clinician first. They are reached by a friend who noticed. These five steps come from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and research shows they genuinely help.
Ask directly
“Are you thinking about suicide?” Asking does not plant the idea. It opens a door, and it tells them you can handle the answer.
Keep them safe
Ask whether they have a plan and whether they have access to what it would take. Putting time and distance between a person and the means saves lives.
Be there
Listen without rushing to fix it. Sit in it with them. Only offer what you can genuinely follow through on, then follow through.
Help them connect
Save 988 in their phone together. Help them make the first appointment or the first call. Going with someone is worth more than telling them to go.
Stay in touch
A short message days and weeks later matters more than people expect. Follow up is one of the strongest protective factors there is.
“Bringing hope, awareness, and connection to our community. Because every life matters, and no one should struggle alone.”
Shelby County Suicide Prevention Coalition
1st Annual Fishing for Sammy
Casting hope. Changing lives. Honoring Sammy.
A day on the water in Sammy's memory, and a reminder that grief and prevention belong in the same room. Everyone is welcome, whether you fish or not.