FAQs
What is Lock and Talk?
Lock and Talk is a suicide prevention initiative based in Virginia. It aims to promote conversation around mental wellness and the safe handling of lethal means, such as firearms and medications.
Since 2015, eight prevention professionals in the northern and western community mental health agencies of Virginia worked diligently to develop and implement a new community suicide prevention program.
These “Founding Mothers” expanded the program across Virginia in partnership with the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.
Now, Lock and Talk is embedded in Prevention Services at Community Services Boards around the state.
How does Lock and Talk contribute to suicide prevention?
Lock and Talk offers various services, including suicide prevention education, mental health wellness education, community training, access to resources, medication lock boxes, and trigger and cable locks.
What are the training programs offered by Lock and Talk?
Lock and Talk offers several training programs, including ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences), ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training), Adult Mental Health First Aid, Community Resilience Initiative's Courses, QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), SafeTalk Suicide Alertness Skills Training, and Youth Mental Health First Aid.
Visit our Training & Events page for more information.
Who can attend these training programs?
Anyone interested in learning more about mental health and suicide prevention can attend these training programs. Some courses may have specific prerequisites or age requirements.
How can I access Lock and Talk resources?
If you are a Lock and Talk Virginia partner, you can access the materials, talking points, and more through the portal. If you live in Virginia, Lock and Talk provides free or low-cost trainings to help community members learn how to become alert to suicide risks.
How can I find my local Community Service Board (CSB)?
Lock and Talk partners with Community Services Boards and Behavioral Health agencies all over Virginia to provide publicly funded suicide prevention resources. You can find your local CSB using the map on each Lock and Talk webpage.
How do I request a lock box or trigger locks?
All 40 Community Services Boards (CSB) in Virginia supply free medication lock boxes and firearm locks. You can request a device by contacting your CSB directly or by filling out our Safety Device Request form here: https://www.lockandtalk.org/contact-us
Supplies may be limited.
How do you use a lock box and trigger lock?
Click the links below for a video on how to use a medication box and trigger locks.
English medication lock box video
Spanish medication lock box video
How can I become a partner?
Interested in learning more about how to become a Lock and Talk Virginia Partner? You can fill out the General Inquiry form located on the Contact Us page or email jordan.brooks@regionten.org directly. Jordan Brooks, the Regional Coordinator, will then reach out to you to schedule an interest meeting with you and your team.
What is suicide?
Suicide is the act of intentionally causing one's own death, often as a result of depression or other mental health struggles. It's a serious public health problem that can have lasting harmful effects on individuals, families, and communities.
Who does suicide impact?
Suicide can impact anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.
How can I ask for help if I’m having thoughts of suicide?
If you know are having thoughts of suicide, you may feel like you are struggling alone. And oftentimes taking that first step of asking for help can be the hardest. You are not alone. Please know there are many different ways to reach out for resources that will be most helpful for your circumstances. You have options.
How can I help someone who is having thoughts of suicide?
If someone you know shows suicide warning signs, it's crucial to listen, show empathy, and not dismiss their feelings. Encourage them to seek professional help.
What are the suicide warning signs?
Knowing suicide warning signs can help save a life.
LOOK
These may be signs that someone is at risk for suicide:
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
• Sleeping too little or too much.
• Withdrawing or feeling isolated.
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
• Displaying extreme mood swings.
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
• Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun.
LISTEN
Because individuals considering suicide may talk about:
• Feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
• Being a burden to others.
• Feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
• Wanting to die or to kill oneself.
LEARN
About the ways to help:
• Take a training like Mental Health First Aid, ASIST or safeTALK.
• Contact your local Community Services Board or Behavioral Health agency.
• Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
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How can I talk about suicide with others?
It's crucial to approach the topic of suicide with sensitivity and empathy. Use non-judgmental language, listen actively, and offer support. Educate yourself about suicide to help dispel myths and stigma.
How can I support someone who is struggling with their mental health?
Listen to them, show empathy, and encourage them to seek professional help. Stay connected and let them know they're not alone. Educate yourself about mental health issues so you can provide informed support.
How can I support someone who is at risk of suicide?
Listening, showing empathy, and not dismissing their feelings are crucial. Encouraging them to seek professional help, providing resources, and staying connected can also be beneficial.
How do I start the conversation about suicide?
Talking to someone about suicide can feel awkward and uncomfortable. But, if you have concerns, breaking through your own discomfort could save a life. Showing your concern and directly asking about thoughts of suicide can be vital first steps in helping someone get the support they need.
- Be sensitive to the need for privacy. Approach and talk in a private setting.
- Be yourself. Use honest and non-judgmental language to start a conversation. Tell the person what you’ve noticed. Use words that you feel comfortable with and that make sense given the situation and your relationship.
- Be direct. Ask them directly, “Are you having thoughts of suicide?” or “Are you thinking about killing yourself?”. You will not put this thought in their head, if they are having these thoughts, asking will only shine the light on that dark place and give them the space to talk. Let them know you are listening.
- Show your concern and support. Acknowledge the despair they’re feeling. Don’t try to minimize their pain. Let the person know you care and that they are valued. Be kind, even if you feel angry about what they’re considering.
- Be aware that you may have to break confidentiality. Do not make promises to not tell anyone about their thoughts, suicide should be taken seriously and you may need to help them get connected to help even if they resist.
- Help connect them with professional help.
How do I talk to my child about suicide
As a parent, you should approach the conversation about mental health and suicide just as you would any health or safety issue. It is important to first educate yourself on the warning signs of suicide and what could possibly put your child more at risk for developing a mental health issue or experience thoughts of suicide and how best to support them. Signs and behaviors to look for include, among others:
- Poor grades in school despite trying very hard
- Severe worry or anxiety, as shown by regular refusal to go to school, go to sleep or take part in activities that are normal for the child's age
- Frequent physical complaints
- Changes in sleeping and/or eating habits
- Extreme difficulties in concentrating that get in the way at school or at home
- Sexual acting out
- Depression often accompanied by poor appetite, difficulty sleeping or thoughts of death
- Severe mood swings
- Strong worries or anxieties that get in the way of daily life, such as at school or socializing
- Repeated use of alcohol and/or drugs
Don’t be afraid to have a conversation with your child about mental health and suicide. Ask your child how they’re doing, what’s happening in their world these days, and what their concerns are. It can start simply by asking, “Are you okay?”. Use “I” statements if you are noticing any changes or concerning behaviors.
Listen intently and without judgment. Ask open-ended questions, i.e. those that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. Resist the urge to offer quick fixes or solutions to their challenges, which tends to shut down further dialog. Validate and support their feelings.
If you are concerned for your child’s mental health, consider reaching out to their pediatrician or local Community Services Board to get connected to support.
What is postvention?
Postvention is a planned response after a suicide to help with healing and reduce risk of further suicide incidents. How a suicide is handled affects the risk factors for others, especially vulnerable individuals.
How do I cope after losing a loved one to suicide?
The grief that follows a suicide can be complex and unique. It's important to allow yourself to feel this grief and not rush your healing process. Seek support from mental health professionals, join a support group, and don't hesitate to talk about your feelings.
Are there support groups available for those who have lost someone to suicide?
Yes, many organizations offer support groups for suicide loss survivors. These groups provide a safe space to share experiences and feelings. Some resources can be found at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
How can I manage my grief after a suicide?
Everyone grieves differently. It's important to take care of your physical health, practice self-care, and find healthy ways to express your emotions. Professional help can also be beneficial in managing grief.
Are there any resources available in Virginia for those struggling with thoughts of suicide?
Yes, there are several resources available, including helplines, support groups, and initiatives offer suicide prevention education, mental health wellness education, community training, and more. Visit our Resources page for more info.
What are the current suicide rates in Virginia?
According to data, suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in Virginia, with the state being ranked 40th in the nation for its suicide rate. The average firearm suicide rate in Virginia is higher than the national average.
What is being done to reduce the suicide rate in Virginia?
Reducing the suicide rate to 12.8 suicides per 100,000 population is a Healthy People 2030 objective. Initiatives like Lock & Talk, as well as various mental health resources and training programs, are part of the efforts to achieve this goal.
What is the economic impact of suicide in Virginia?
In 2010, suicides cost Virginia a total of $1,124,664,000 in combined lifetime medical and work loss costs, averaging $1,167,876 per suicide death.
What is the suicide rate among Veterans in Virginia?
In 2021, the Virginia Veteran Data sheet identify 193 Veterans that died by suicide; 182 men and 11 women. While Virginia Veteran suicide rates increased in 2021, anchors of hope emerged:
- Number of suicide deaths for women decreased
- Method of suicide by firearms decreased
Veterans Affairs has developed a website, intended for Veterans and the general public that offers plain-speak linkages and messaging between the Annual Report data, strategic plans developed, actions taken, outcomes seen, future plans formed, and resources available paired with key populations and issues highlighted within this year’s report.
You can visit this new site here: https://department.va.gov/suicide-prevention-annual-report/
What are current Virginia gun laws?
If you pay Virginia taxes any time between 2023-2028, you are qualified to receive up to a $300 tax credit for buying a gun safe or other safe storage device.
Save and download our current rack card for more information.