Montana is home to the highest suicide rate in the country, & the child suicide rate (ages 10 to 17) is DOUBLE the national rate according to a recent report from Montana Kids Count. The report explains the risk factors, signs, & effective prevention. Children here in Montana are most likely to kill themselves with guns. Karl Rosston, Suicide Prevention Coordinator at the Montana D-P-H-H-S, says that means recognizing warning signs & risks such as feelings of hopelessness, being a burden to others, & talk about not being afraid to die. He adds that when there is risk, homes need to become "suicide proof." Rosston says warning signs & risks merit a call to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1 800 273 TALK (8255), a trip to the emergency room or quick doctor appointment, & DON'T leave the person alone. Suicide isn't just a children's issue here in Montana; our state has the highest rate for all ages in the country. Also, as suicide rates for American Indian children are higher than for other Montana children, the use of culturally-appropriate prevention strategies needs to be expanded as well. Please visit: http://www.montanakidscount.com.

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