Wisconsin Enhances Suicide Prevention Efforts with New Partnerships

The department has extended its collaboration with Aspirus health system and formed a new alliance with Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM America). Aspirus will broaden its community training on the Question, Persuade, and Refer method, designed to assist individuals at risk of self-harm in seeking mental health support.

Governor Tony Evers emphasized that these partnerships not only help professionals recognize suicide warning signs but also address gaps in healthcare access. They aim to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health discussions and promote open conversations that can ultimately save lives.

Firearms are known risk factors in suicide cases, with more than half of the recorded suicides in Milwaukee County in 2025 involving guns. Experts suggest that temporarily separating individuals in mental health crises from firearms can be lifesaving.

Milwaukee County offers crisis response and behavioral health services, alongside local organizations providing affordable mental health care. Initiatives like the Wisconsin Gun Shop Project Live Today – Put It Away work to reduce access to firearms during mental health emergencies by partnering with local gun shops to share safety information and provide temporary off-site storage options at low costs.

For those in crisis, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 via call or text. The Department of Health Services also shares key tips for supporting someone experiencing suicidal thoughts, including asking directly about their feelings, providing support, ensuring their safety, connecting them with professional resources, and following up after assistance is provided.

This information was originally published by Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service.