HONOLULU (KHON2) -- A collaboration between the University of Hawaii and the Department of Health is trying to help prevent suicide here in the islands. It's called Culturally-based Community Connections for Resilience. Find more Hawaii, Oahu, Maui and Kauai news here "It's the first time the DOH & CTAHR are collaborating, bridging across disciplinary boundaries of health, and agriculture to address a pressing issue that has not been on the radar which has been blinking red," Thao Le, Chair & Professor in Family Consumer Sciences Department at UH Manoa said. "Essential workers as defined in this project are farmers and first responders. They are essential to our livelihood, yet their livelihood is in trouble. In fact, farmers are ranked 4th in the nation for experiencing depression & suicide. First responders experience trauma on a daily basis, such that many suffer from passive suicide." The program also includes working in loʻi and other Native Hawaiian practices to help first responders and essential workers with their mental health. "Focus is on the relational aspects, on building peer networks and community connections, as well as providing opportunities for our essential workers to experience healing through Native Hawaiian cultural practices. This approach is a novel one as a way to reduce suicide for essential workers. Further, we are moving the focus/onus from the individual to a collective responsibility." Mark Kunimune, the president of Ho'ohanu & Emeritus Faculty EMS Department at KCC said. They also shared tips for someone to say to another if you suspect the person is thinking about suicide. "Be mindful of safe messaging, use non-stigmatizing language," Le said. "Suicide is preventable. We can all do our part to help prevent suicide." Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Call 988 if you or your loved one is experiencing mental health-related challenges.