Location: Remote
The Suicide Prevention Program Intern will support the Illinois Department of Public Health’s suicide prevention initiatives through collaboration, research, program implementation, and evaluation activities. This graduate-level internship offers an in-depth opportunity to apply the core competencies of suicide prevention in real-world public health practice. The intern will gain practical experience in program planning, inter-agency collaboration, public awareness campaigns, and data analysis, all aligned with the Illinois Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan.
Responsibilities:
1. Program Support and Implementation
- Collaborate with the Illinois Suicide Prevention Alliance (ISPA) and facilitate subcommittees focused on mandates, screening, and public awareness.
- Report activity status during ISPA meetings and support implementation of committee recommendations.
- Support schools in screening for mental health problems and linking students to services.
2. Federal and State Grant Support
- Assist in implementation of the youth suicide prevention project funded by SAMHSA, CDC, and General Revenue Funds.
- Support grant activities including depression screening, referral pathways, postvention resources, workforce training, and lethal means reduction.
- Contribute to the development of funding opportunities and resources for grantees.
3. Data Collection and Analysis
- Collaborate with IDPH data managers to gather and analyze data.
- Create data-driven materials such as burden briefs, infographics, and web content to communicate the impact of suicide in Illinois.
4. Public Awareness and Professional Development
- Promote best practices and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline through educational materials and campaigns.
- Organize webinars and serve on planning committees for statewide suicide prevention trainings.
5. Community and Cultural Engagement
- Assist in gathering input from individuals with lived experience.
- Consult with tribal organizations and other culturally relevant partners to ensure equity and inclusivity in prevention efforts.
6. Reporting and Strategic Alignment
- Maintain updated records of statewide adolescent suicide prevention activities.
- Develop progress reports for IDPH’s Maternal and Child Health Program.
- Identify and pursue new opportunities based on intern strengths and interests, aligned with the Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan.
Qualifications:
- Currently pursuing a graduate degree in Health Communication, Community Health, Public Health, Health Administration, or related field.
- Demonstrated interest in youth mental health, wellness promotion, or community-based public health.
- Experience in community outreach, health education, or research.
- Familiarity with mental health systems, screening tools, or prevention strategies.
- Data analysis or public communication experience is a plus.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
Duration and Compensation:
This is an unpaid internship with flexible scheduling options to accommodate academic commitments. Academic credit may be available depending on your institution's guidelines. This is a fully remote opportunity for 15-20 hours per week.
All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, July 8th 12:00pm to be considered for this internship.
Apply here
