For decades, Montana, where outliers of the Rocky Mountains meet the Great Plains, has held the woeful distinction of having one of the highest suicide rates nationwide. Suicides are so pervasive that Rosston and the Montana’s Suicide Mortality Review Team are looking for help from everyone, law enforcement, clergy, health care professionals, schools, businesses and residents of all ages.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana has joined the efforts. Last year, it donated $250,000 to support a new psychiatry residency at the University of Washington designed to bring more mental health professionals to Montana. The program will train residents dedicated to working in rural areas.
The insurer also has funded a theater production, “Every Brilliant Thing,” a play about suicide, depression and resilience to be performed in 50 communities throughout the state. The tour sought to diminish the shame associated with suicide and mental illness.
Read more and watch a video about our work.