Implementing Zero Suicide in Health Systems

The Implementing Zero Suicide in Health Systems grant program, forecasted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), is part of a national initiative to reduce suicide among adults through systemic change in healthcare settings. The program supports the implementation of the Zero Suicide framework—a strategic, multi-setting approach to suicide prevention. This model emphasizes systemic leadership, workforce training, identification of individuals at risk, patient engagement, evidence-based treatment, smooth transitions across levels of care, and ongoing improvement through data-driven quality assurance. The grant seeks to embed suicide prevention strategies into existing health systems to create sustainable improvements in the identification and treatment of at-risk adults. Grantees will be required to fully implement all seven core components of the Zero Suicide model: Lead, Train, Identify, Engage, Treat, Transition, and Improve. This comprehensive approach aims to develop integrated pathways of care that reduce suicide rates through effective screening, intervention, and follow-up. Funding will be directed toward healthcare systems operating in community-based primary care or behavioral health settings, emergency departments, state or territorial mental/public health agencies, and tribal health organizations. The program anticipates awarding approximately 31 grants with a total available funding of $16,110,545. However, specific award ceilings or floors have not yet been defined. No cost-sharing or matching contributions are required. Eligibility is explicitly limited to specific entities including community-based healthcare providers, emergency departments, state or territorial health agencies, public health agencies, and federally recognized tribal organizations, as defined in section 5304 of title 25. While eligibility is restricted by organization type, the program has nationwide applicability with no stated geographic restrictions. At this stage, the opportunity remains in a forecasted status. The estimated post date is February 17, 2026, but an official application due date, award announcement, or project start date has not yet been published. As a result, interested organizations should monitor the program’s status and prepare for a possible launch in early 2026. Key contact for inquiries is Whitcomb Wakefield-Terpening, available by phone at (240) 276-2911 or via email at zerosuicide@samhsa.hhs.gov. No PDF link has been provided at this time.