Legacy in practice: J. William worden’s connections to suicide prevention

This article honors the enduring legacy of J. William Worden and his lasting contributions to the field of death studies and suicide prevention, with a focus on how his work continues to shape current clinical practice. Worden's development of the Risk-Rescue Rating and his research on lethality and intent have laid the foundation for many of the tools used today to assess suicide risk and guide care. These approaches are now widely used in crisis lines, including the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and in support group interventions. These tools enable practitioners to identify individuals at elevated risk and provide appropriate care. At the Didi Hirsch Suicide Prevention Center (DHSPC), Worden's influence is evident in the use of self-report tools like the Self-Rate Intent (SRI) scale and the creation of peer-led support models such as the Survivors of Suicide Attempt (SOSA) group. By connecting Worden's early innovations to current practices, this article highlights how his work continues to help professionals identify risk, offer meaningful support, and improve outcomes for those in suicidal crisis.