BRISTOL, Wis. — Kenosha County Behavioral Health Services hosted the first of two community suicide-screening training sessions Thursday evening, teaching residents how to recognize warning signs and determine when someone may be at immediate risk of suicide.
The “Know the Signs, Ask the Questions” training uses the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale, an evidence-based screening tool designed to assess both the severity and immediacy of suicide risk.
County social workers Kristen Rabideau and Tori Shelton led the session at the Kenosha County Center in Bristol. Rabideau and Shelton are embedded with the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office and Pleasant Prairie Police Department, respectively, where they work alongside law enforcement to connect people experiencing behavioral health crises with treatment and other resources.
Participants received laminated pocket cards outlining a series of direct questions that can be used when screening someone for suicide risk. The questions range from whether a person has wished they were dead to whether they have considered a specific method, formed an intention to act or taken steps to prepare for suicide.
The card identifies certain responses as high risk and directs people to seek immediate help when someone reports intent, a plan or preparatory actions. It also lists the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
A second training session, which is free and open to the public, will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Pleasant Prairie Police Department, 10111 39th Ave.
The sessions are being held during Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. County Executive Samantha Kerkman also presented a proclamation recognizing the month during Thursday’s program.
Residents seeking information about local behavioral health resources can contact Kenosha County Behavioral Health Services. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, or concerned about someone who may be, can call Kenosha County crisis services at 262-657-7188 or call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
