COVID19 imposed a significant impact on the rates of suicide deaths not only within Duplin County but globally. Many people were isolated within their homes, unemployed which can cause increased stress levels, and decreased access to care due to quarantine, all of which can negatively impact one's mental health. 

As shown below through Healthy Communities data, Duplin County residents aged 65-74 showed the highest rates of suicide per 100,000 population (2016-2019). 

What's helping:

• Virtual telepsych program through NCSTeP and ECU Health
• NCMedAssist program helping patients afford mental health medications

What's hurting:

• High rates of opioid/substance abuse
• Insurance qualifications that may keep some patients from receiving mental healthcare
• Poor social and community support
• Lack of education regarding suicide prevention/intervention

• Duplin County Mental Health and Primary Care Providers
• ECU Health Duplin 
• Eastpointe Access Center
• Duplin EMS
• SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
• NCMedAssist

• Educate community on suicide prevention (reviewing signs and symptoms)
• Increased awareness of mental health crisis programs through advertisement (social media, word of mouth, etc)
• Provider making more referrals to mental health programs and providers
• Educate community partners about mental health programs
• Initiate or explore existing community support programs for teens with poor social support

• Review referral process with provider and emphasize importance
• Community education events with community partners for suicide prevention
• Increased awareness of suicide prevention programs as well as mental health programs/assistance through social media, billboards, community events