Centerstone, a national leader in behavioral healthcare, has received a five-year reaccreditation from the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) for its Crisis Services line of care. The official accreditation recognizes Centerstone Crisis Services as meeting or exceeding all the criteria established by AAS to be named a nationally approved crisis intervention program.

The AAS accreditation is based on rigorous examination of Centerstone's administration, cultural competencies, use of technology, ethical standards and practices, and services in life threatening crises. Evaluation feedback described delivery of Centerstone Crisis Services as "exceptional" and its community integration methods as "the gold standard for crisis services."

"Centerstone leadership, board members, and staff are clearly committed to the highest standards of suicide prevention," said Colleen Creighton, AAS chief executive officer. "As our nation sees a rise in rates of suicidal ideation possibly due to issues surrounding COVID-19, Centerstone Crisis Services is a strong ally in our efforts to save lives."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in August 2020 that 25% of 18-24 year olds in the United States had seriously considered suicide in the past 30 days. More than 10% of all ages in the same survey reported having suicidal ideation, and rates were significantly higher among essential workers (21%), people of color (15%), and unpaid caregivers (30%).

"Suicide prevention measures are built into every line of service that Centerstone provides," said Becky Stoll, Centerstone vice president for Crisis and Disaster Management. "We're grateful to AAS for holding behavioral healthcare teams to the highest standards, and our organization is honored to receive this reaccreditation."