Conversations about self-harm are never easy, but they are essential. Every statistic represents someone’s child, sibling, friend or neighbour. By breaking the silence, choosing words that reduce stigma and offering safe spaces to talk, communities like Seattle can move from isolation toward hope.
At Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care, that belief guides every step of prevention. Through the Zero Suicide framework, the organization is reshaping how health care providers respond to self-harm. This is not a short training session or program but a long-term, system-wide commitment that extends from leadership to frontline staff. The goal is simple but powerful: to make care safer, more responsive and more compassionate.
“Prevention is not a single step, it’s a culture,” says Payton Standfill, Marketing Specialist at Valley Cities. “When every part of an organization is involved, we create an environment where people feel seen, supported and never left behind.”
The framework identifies seven guiding areas of focus:
- Leadership that is fully committed to the cause, carrying the vision for prevention through every level of the organization.
- Staff training and support so providers feel confident and prepared to offer the best possible care.
- Client care that is delivered with dignity, consistency and compassion.
- Relationships between providers and clients that are built on trust and sustained over time.
- Treatment that is ongoing, effective and tailored to individual needs.
- Transitions between different levels of care that are safe, seamless and supportive.
- Continuous improvement through regular review and reflection, ensuring care evolves as knowledge deepens.
At Valley Cities, these principles translate into stronger screening tools, expanded education for staff, smooth pathways between services and a commitment to continually reassessing practices so clients and families feel supported at every stage.
Equally important is the role of language. Terms such as “committed” or “failed attempt” can add to shame, while phrases like “experienced self-harm” or “survived an attempt” bring dignity and understanding to those struggling.
“Language can either open doors or close them,” Standfill says. “When we change the way we talk, we change the way people feel about reaching out for help.”
Valley Cities also emphasizes care for the caregivers. Supporting people in crisis is meaningful work, but it can also be emotionally heavy. Addressing burnout and encouraging providers to seek help ensures care remains sustainable. Staff are reminded to prioritize their own well-being, lean on one another and make use of resources designed to support them in their vital work.
“Every conversation is a step toward healing,” Standfill adds. “When communities and providers stand together, we create a culture where asking for help is met with compassion and hope.”
To learn more about Valley Cities and their services, call 253-833-7444 or visit valleycities.org. Follow them on Facebook for news and updates.
Help support Valley Cities:
Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care accepts one-time, monthly and legacy donations to help sustain and expand its services throughout King County.
If you or someone you know is currently struggling with mental health and/or addiction, contact the Valley Cities team by phone at 253-833-7444 or in person at your local Valley Cities location. You can also call the 24 hour crisis line at 206-461-3222 or toll free at 866-427-4747.
