Robust Crisis Services Aim to Prevent Suicides in Riverside County

MORENO VALLEY, CA - This September, as part of National Suicide Prevention Month, Riverside University Health System (RUHS) is reminding Riverside County residents of the extensive Behavioral Health services and resources available free for all ages.

Riverside County reported 1,393 suicide deaths and 14,576 non-fatal self-harm injuries from suicide attempts over the last five years. Youth aged 25 and under constituted 195 of the deaths and half of the non-fatal self-harm injuries. In the United States, suicide rates were up 5% in 2021 and another 2.6% in 2022, totaling about 49,449 deaths.

“These statistics emphasize the need for reinforced prevention efforts across all ages,” said Dr. Matthew Chang, director of RUHS Behavioral Health (RUHS-BH). "Through united community efforts, education, and robust crisis services, we can change these numbers."

RUHS-BH's Prevention and Early Intervention (PEI) program targets early detection of mental health challenges and empowers residents with tools and training that emphasizes a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention.

RUHS also utilizes Mobile Crisis Response Teams, crisis urgent care centers, live peer chats through https://takemyhand.co, and programs at schools to promote mental health. Confidential, bilingual help is available 24/7 through the Crisis Helpline, 951-686-HELP (4357).

Riverside County’s Suicide Prevention Coalition will explore these topics and more at its annual summit, on Oct. 26 at Agua Caliente Resort and Casino in Rancho Mirage. This year’s conference explores the theme of “Creating Hope Through Action: Bridging the Gap Between Spirituality and Suicide Prevention.”

For additional information on programs and services, contact Prevention and Early Intervention at 951-955-3448 or [email protected], or visit ruhealth.org.