In this episode, Craig Evans addresses the critical yet often avoided topic of EMS suicide. He emphasizes the need for open conversations about suicide within the EMS community, the importance of understanding and assessing suicide risk, and the role of education in preparing EMS professionals to handle these situations compassionately. The discussion highlights the vagueness of current educational standards regarding suicide risk assessment and advocates for a zero suicide stance in EMS practices. Craig encourages EMS professionals to normalize discussions about mental health and suicide, ensuring that they approach these conversations with care and compassion to better support their patients and colleagues.

Takeaways

• We need to face the topic of EMS suicide head-on.
• Most EMS protocols do not address suicide screening.
• Suicidal ideation is just one aspect of suicide risk.
• Every EMS agency should have a zero suicide stance.
• 3.6 million people treated by EMS are not seen at hospitals.
• Over-triaging is safer than under-triaging in suicide risk assessment.
• Compassionate conversations are essential in assessing suicide risk.
• Suicide is not a sign of weakness or quitting.
• Normalizing discussions about mental health is crucial.
• We must take care of each other in the EMS community.

"Suicide is not quitting."

"We've got to get a handle on this."

"It's getting out of control."