Stamford Looks To Hep Those In Need With New Postvention Plan

Information via city of Stamford

STAMFORD, CT — City officials have finalized a postvention plan for use after a suicide or untimely death in the community, according to an announcement from Mayor Caroline Simmons' Office.

Postvention refers to a systematic way of responding after a death by suicide or untimely death. The purpose of postvention is to support those healing from the grief of the loss and address the needs of those impacted.

For example, officials may support the family in making burial plans, organizing grief counseling in schools or faith-based organizations, and addressing basic needs.

In the case of suicide, postvention is also designed to reduce the chance of suicide contagion, or the increase of suicide or suicidal behaviors after individuals are exposed to suicide.

Both the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control recommend a community approach to preventing subsequent suicides, including appropriate media coverage and support services for those impacted.

"Our first priority as a city is to ensure that we protect our residents in every way we can," said Simmons in a news release. "We know that mental health is a key public health issue affecting Stamford, and I am grateful for the leadership of our city officials in preparing this plan so we can more effectively respond."

The Postvention Task Force is headed by Director of Social Services Sharona Cowan and Director of Health Jody Bishop-Pullan. Representatives on the task force include other city employees, first responders, mental health professionals, public and private school administrators, faith leaders, funeral home directors and health care professionals.

"It was important to us to utilize a collaborative approach in our response to ensure the most effective response," Cowan said in a news release. "In my role, I see the everyday struggles of our residents. Making sure we can support them in a time of loss is a big priority for me."

Bishop-Pullan said she's grateful for the work of all of those on the task force.

"Hopefully, knowing we are ready to respond in the case of an emergency will help make residents feel confident in the City’s capacity to support them," she added in a news release.

A list of local mental health resources can be found here on the city’s website. For more information about the Postvention Task Force, email postvention@stamfordct.gov.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide or having suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 9-8-8 or 800-273-8255 (En Español: 888-628-9454; Deaf and Hard of Hearing: 800-799-4889) or visit SuicidePreventionLifeline.org. People in need can also text the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741-741.