Native H.O.P.E Suicide Prevention Workshop Heads to Whitehorse High School

Native News Network Staff in Native Briefs. Discussion »

MONTEZUMA CREEK, UTAH – Native H.O.P.E.(Helping our People Endure) is a culturally based peer counseling program that addresses suicide prevention and related risk factors such as substance abuse, violence, trauma/stress and depression. The curriculum is based on the theory that Native youth can break the "Code of Silence" and learn to help and support each other. The program supports the inclusion of Native culture, traditions, spirituality, ceremonies and humor.

The workshop will give students the skills, support and resources needed to help prevent suicide.

Eve's Fund for Native American Health Initiatives, in partnership with Four Corners Regional Health Center and Utah Navajo Health System, will sponsor a suicide prevention workshop on October 30-31 at Whitehorse High School in Montezuma Creek, Utah.

“Suicide is currently the second leading cause of death for American Indians ages 10-34,”

said Barbara Crowell Roy, president of Eve's Fund.

"This Native H.O.P.E. workshop will give students at Whitehorse High School the skills, support and resources needed to help prevent suicide in their community."

Dr. Clayton Small, a clinical psychologist and internationally known trainer in the areas of suicide prevention, team-trust building and youth leadership development, will conduct the educational program known as Native H.O.P.E. for 95 students in grades 9-10.

Dr. Small will also hold a "Train the Trainers" session on October 29 for adult volunteer facilitators so they have the tools to reinforce the program throughout the year. This reinforcement and the ongoing peer support groups are two of the reasons for the program's success.

posted October 23, 2012 6:20 am edt