Native America Calling: Finding effective suicide prevention as federal support fades

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Native America Calling

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Native America Calling: Finding effective suicide prevention as federal support fades

Monday, September 8, 2025

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Finding effective suicide prevention as federal support fades

Suicide numbers are lower in places with higher incomes, better access to broadband internet, and good health insurance coverage.

Unfortunately, those are all factors that are statistically lacking for many Native Americans and Alaska Natives. Development of the nationwide 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has improved the persistently high Native suicide rate, and efforts to introduce culturally sensitive prevention and intervention methods are showing promise.

But as the federal government dissolves much of its support for mental health services and suicide prevention efforts, tune into Native America Calling to highlight some of the work that is making a difference for Native populations.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Healing isn’t the same for everyone. It’s a personal journey. 👣 Check out these inspiring stories of hope and recovery: 988lifeline.org/stories. Image: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Guests on Native America Calling

Rachel Bogacz (Ponca and Omaha), director of Integrated Care for the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

LuAnn Even, chief behavioral health officer for the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

Stephanie Pasternak, director of State Affairs for National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Kim Farris, director of Behavioral Health for the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic in Oklahoma