Attached is a Tribal Leader Letter from the Department of the Interior and the Department of Health and Human Services announcing ten regional suicide prevention listening sessions. We have heard the request from tribal leaders for a coordinated effort, both for suicide prevention and intervention strategies, as well as effective community responses when these events occur, particularly among our youth. The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Indian Education, Indian Health Service, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration are working closely together to formulate long term strategic approaches to address the issue of suicide and mental health care in Indian country more effectively.

To help us all address these challenges together, we are now preparing for a national, comprehensive Suicide Awareness Conference.  We anticipate the conference will occur early next year. In order to best prepare for the conference, there will be a series of Listening Sessions throughout Indian country. Additional information and the scheduled Listening Sessions are attached.
IHS BIA SAMSHA Dear Tribal Leader Letter

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