Trinity Health Livonia and the Western Wayne Suicide Prevention Coalition

Through a Community Health Needs Assessment, behavioral health struggles – primarily mental health and substance abuse – were identified as top concerns among adolescents in Western Wayne County. With this in mind, Trinity Health Livonia Hospital, a 2023 MHA Ludwig award recipient, is addressing gaps in behavioral health through their work with the Western Wayne Suicide Prevention Coalition (WWSPC). This initiative provides evidence-based behavioral health services, youth activities and education to decrease stigma and improve early detection of depression and suicide. One of the many efforts of the coalition was to train more than 20,000 people – teens, families, school staff and community members – to change policies and support suicide prevention. Additionally, the group is focused on expanding access to mental health screenings and treatment, developing safety plans for students returning to school after a suicide attempt, teaching skills to manage mental health and procedural changes that equip staff to monitor and communicate with students who may be struggling. 

“Participating in the coalition has proven exceptionally valuable for Plymouth-Canton Community Schools initiatives, enriching our mental health programs with vital student-centered resources,” said Kathy Grodus, mental health manager and district psychologist at Plymouth-Canton Community Schools. “This 

collaboration brings together professionals from seven school districts and Trinity Health hospitals, enhancing our ability to identify at-risk students, provide timely assistance, and foster an open mental health dialogue.”