Lifelines: A Suicide Prevention Program is a three-part, evidence-based suicide curriculum that builds competent communities and educates Monmouth County schools on assessing youth and adult suicide risk. It was developed by Mental Health Association of Monmouth County suicide prevention consultant Maureen Underwood, LCSW, and psychologist John Kalafat.
Designed for implementation in middle and high schools, Lifelines targets the entire school community by offering suicide awareness resources for administrators, faculty, staff, parents, and students. The curriculum seamlessly integrates into health class programming and lesson plans. Lifelines educates students on the facts about suicide and their role in suicide prevention. It provides information on where to find suicide prevention resources within the school and community. Training materials are included for faculty and staff, offering accurate and practical information on identifying and referring students who may be at risk for suicide. Lifelines also includes a presentation for parents that addresses questions about youth suicide and prevention, involving them in the school’s suicide prevention activities