The Alliance for Suicide Prevention of Larimer County has reported progress in reducing suicide rates in the region. This is attributed to its REPLY program and collaboration with local organizations. The REPLY (Resiliency Education Protecting the Lives of Youth) initiative began in 1992. It provides free suicide prevention training to middle and high school students in Larimer County. In the past five years, the program has trained thousands of youth and adults. Participants learn to recognize warning signs and how to respond.
Traci Sandoval, a former neuroscience researcher and middle school science teacher, is involved in the program. After moving from Texas, Sandoval joined the Alliance and began leading REPLY classes. She uses her personal experiences to connect with students. Sandoval has lost both parents and a close friend to suicide, which informs her approach in the classroom.
The REPLY curriculum has changed over time. It now covers topics beyond mental health diagnoses, including adolescent challenges, brain development, positive psychology, and building trust with adults and peers. The program promotes open discussions about depression, puberty, and daily struggles. This approach aims to reduce stigma around mental health among young people…