Suicide Prevention

Behavioral Healthcare

There is always hope.

We take mental health very seriously—especially when it comes to suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, we’re here to offer resources and support.

Suicide and non-fatal suicidal behavior are significant public health issues in Idaho, but they are preventable. Panhandle Health District is committed to suicide prevention through our collaboration with the Suicide Prevention Action Network (SPAN), Region 1 Behavioral Health Board, and numerous community partners across all five northern counties.

We hope the services and resources featured here will help our community understand and actively participate in our suicide prevention efforts, as this issue affects us all.

Important: We do not offer crisis intervention or counseling services. If you are in a mental health crisis, please call or text the 24-hour Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline at 988. For life-threatening emergencies, dial 911 immediately.

Call 988

If you or someone you know is struggling, we ask that you immediately reach out to the Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline

Many people have found that talking helps to alleviate painful suicidal thoughts and feelings. There is hope. There is help. And we’re here for you through this.

Idaho residents can call or text 988 at any time to talk to a trained professional who can help them through a behavioral health crisis. The emergency phone number is available nationwide. Anyone experiencing behavioral-health related stress – thoughts of suicide, mental health issues, substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress – can call or text 988 at any time. People can also dial 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis intervention.

Everyone has different experiences with their own mental health, and their own preferred methods of care and support. We all have mental health, and by taking one simple action, we can each help influence massive collective change to support #MentalHealth4All.

Free Services

Question, Persuade, and Refer is a vital suicide prevention training that provides the essential steps to helping someone in crisis. This training equips you to identify at-risk individuals, intervene effectively, and guide them to the right support. PHD provides free trainings upon request.

Request a training today!

Captivating young minds with the importance of prioritizing mental well-being and exploring avenues for seeking support when needed. Additionally, providing them with lifelong coping strategies to navigate challenges in adulthood and build resilience. To request a free presentation for your organization or school, email spanofni@phd1.idaho.gov.

Find compassionate peer-to-peer support while navigating the challenging journey of grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide. All are welcome!
The support group meets the first Wednesday of every month from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm in-person and online.

Join in Person:
Panhandle Health District
8500 N. Atlas Rd., Hayden, ID 83835

Join Online:
Join the meeting
Meeting ID: 222 075 182 887 
Passcode: 832LiD

For more information or questions, email spanofni@phd1.idaho.org.

In our efforts to minimize access to harmful means—such as medications and firearms—that can be used in self-harm, Panhandle Health District offers complimentary gun locks, medication lockboxes, and medical disposal pouches. Stop by your local PHD facility to request item(s) or email spanofni@phd1.idaho.org.

PHD actively conducts outreach at strategic events and venues. Bring us to your next gathering to raise awareness and expand access to PHD’s diverse range of over 40 public health programs. Send any outreach participation requests to spanofni@phd1.idaho.org.

Four women smiling together at the walk finish line.

SPAN & Region 1 Behavioral Health Board

Join the Suicide Prevention Action Network of North Idaho (SPAN)

Are you passionate about making a difference in mental health and suicide prevention? Join SPAN, a dynamic quarterly meeting where healthcare providers, community partners, and residents come together to develop and implement effective strategies for suicide prevention and mental well-being.

When: Quarterly on the third Wednesday of January, April, July and October, from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Where: Panhandle Health District (Hayden) and online

Together, we can create a stronger, more supportive community. Your voice and ideas are invaluable. Everyone is welcome to participate!

Join in Person
Panhandle Health District 8500 N. Atlas Rd., Hayden, ID 83835

Join Online
Click here to join the meeting Meeting ID: 274 942 123 266 Passcode: 4A8YGP

View SPAN’s strategic plan here.

To sign up for our mailing list for reminders and resources, click here.

For more information or questions, email spanofni@phd1.idaho.org.

Region 1 Behavioral Health Board

Region 1 Behavioral Health is dedicated to advocating, educating, and ensuring accessible care for individuals requiring Mental Health and Substance Use services. Their mission underscores the development and sustenance of a network that emphasizes prevention and facilitates immediate access to a comprehensive range of services.

In line with this mission, the organization envisions a healthy community characterized by collaboration and integration. They aim to foster a network that promotes and sustains hope and recovery for all members of the community, thereby working towards the realization of their vision.

Feel free to join us for a meeting!

When: First Wednesday of every other month (January, March, May, July, September and November) from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Where: Panhandle Health District, Hayden office, and online

By collaborating with us, you help foster a healthy, integrated community that supports hope and recovery for all. Your involvement is crucial in achieving our shared vision. Everyone is welcome to join!

For more information or questions, email R1BHB@phd1.idaho.gov.

QPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer

Register for a free QPR Training!

QPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer – the 3 simple steps anyone can learn to help save a life from suicide.

Just as people trained in CPR and the Heimlich Maneuver help save thousands of lives each year, people trained in QPR learn how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, persuade, and refer someone to help. Each year thousands of Americans, like you, are saying “Yes” to saving the life of a friend, colleague, sibling, or neighbor.

QPR can be learned in our Gatekeeper course in as little as one hour. QPR is offered through Panhandle Health District by filling out the request form below or Kootenai Health offers QPR. Find Kootenai Health’s available dates here and register.

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