A recent study funded by the CDC and published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine has revealed a significant breakthrough in youth suicide prevention. The research found that Sources of Strength—a program focused on building resilience and connection—led to a 29% reduction in suicide attempts among high school students.

Conducted in collaboration with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the University of Rochester, and the University of North Carolina, the study reinforces the effectiveness of strength-based, peer-led interventions in preventing youth suicide.

• Broad Impact: The program proved effective across diverse student populations, regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity.
• Peer Leaders as Change Agents: The study highlights the power of young people in creating positive change, offering support, and fostering connection.
• Implementation Matters: Schools that fully embraced the program saw the most significant results, reinforcing the importance of proper execution.
• Public Health Significance: Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10–24. This research underscores the need for upstream, community-based solutions.

While the study found Sources of Strength highly effective, it also identified the need for additional support for students who have recently experienced trauma, such as sexual violence.

Previous research has also suggested a potential impact on reducing youth suicide fatalities, reinforcing the importance of programs like Sources of Strength in schools nationwide. These findings offer hope and reaffirm our commitment to proactive, strength-based approaches to mental health.

At the Brian O’Neill Jr. Foundation, we are dedicated to bringing life-changing programs like Sources of Strength to our community. We proudly implement this program in six Berkeley County Schools, Eastern Panhandle Preparatory Academy, and soon in Jefferson County high schools and Shepherd University in Fall 2024. With over 200 peer leaders and 100 adult advisors trained, we are making a significant impact on youth suicide prevention.

In addition to Sources of Strength, we support SafeTALK and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) to equip our community with the tools to recognize and intervene when someone is struggling. These evidence-based programs are helping us empower students, parents, and families to create a culture of support and resilience.