The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK), with its network of more than 160 crisis centers across the country and its volume of more than a million calls per year, is successfully saving lives. How does it work? The Lifeline’s director, Dr. John Draper, challenges traditional ideas about what the “best care” is for people at risk of suicide. He champions a transformative approach: “The best way to keep individuals safe is to empower them to want to keep themselves safe.” In this compelling talk, Dr. Draper will discuss how we can amplify and magnetize hope and empower people to prevent suicides among their families and friends, in their schools, work, and communities.
Dr. John Draper is an expert in crisis center practices, with over 25 years of experience in crisis intervention and suicide prevention. Since 2004, he has served as the director of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-TALK) funded by SAMHSA. Dr. Draper is also the Executive VP of National Networks at the Mental Health Association of New York City, and administers other national crisis support networks, including the SAMHSA-funded Disaster Distress Helpline, technical and backup support for the VA’s Veterans Crisis Line, and the NFL Life Line.
Length: 60 Minutes
