An introduction to suicide prevention.
The Seneca County Suicide Prevention Coalition will be hosting a series of Talk Saves Lives trainings in five locations throughout the community. The community-based presentation is one that covers the general scope of suicide, the research on prevention, and what people can do to fight suicide.
It’s a program developed by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, who is a leader in the suicide prevention efforts nationally. Attendees learn the risk and warning signs of suicide, and how together people can help prevent it from happening.
A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control pointed to increasing suicide rates, and some have even began calling suicide a public health crisis. It is currently the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. The study found that more than 50 percent of those who died by suicide – had an undiagnosed mental health condition.
Furthermore, the AFSP points out that 9 out of 10 people who die by suicide have a mental health condition.
Dates and locations are as follows for the upcoming Talk Saves Lives trainings, which will be open the the public:
Mon., Aug. 22 – 7 p.m. – Seneca Community Church in Romulus – 5738 NY-96, Romulus
Weds., Sept. 5 – 7 p.m. – Seneca Falls Library – 47 Cayuga St, Seneca Falls, NY
Weds., Sept. 12 – 7 p.m. – Lodi Public Library – 8484 S Main St, Lodi
Weds., Sept. 19 – 7 p.m. – The Ministry Center – 25 Center St, Waterloo
Weds., Sept. 26 – 7 p.m. – Papa Bear at Three Bears Complex – Ovid Downtown
Natalee Carroll, who chairs the committee putting these Talk Saves Lives trainings together called it an opportunity for ‘straightforward training’ that can help prevent suicide. “This is what the community has been asking for,” she explained. “Talk Saves Lives is a straightforward training in which participants gain a clear understanding of the data, risk factors, warning signs, and most importantly – specific steps that we can take to help prevent suicide.”
Education is important; and it starts with a conversation. “Suicide impacts all of us, some more directly than others. Speaking openly and educating ourselves are some of the most important things we can do to prevent it,” Carroll added. “I’m hopeful that these trainings will inspire others to get involved with the coalition, participate in the Out of the Darkness Walk this fall, and speak openly with others about suicide.”
Rhonda Jasper, Executive Director of the United Way said that momentum has gathered quickly behind the Coalition, despite only being a year or so old. “For only being about a year old, this Coalition is moving with such momentum because of the energy of the volunteers and the community behind it. By working with AFSP for an event of this magnitude, we not only are able to really bring the Coalition into the spotlight, but also ensure that Seneca County is both supporting and benefitting from many of the amazing resources available to us,” she explained. “The Coalition has a responsibility to provide opportunities to continually engage community members and increase awareness and education to help all of Seneca County become such an inclusive and supportive place to live, work and play.”
Jasper added that getting the tools and resources to everyone in Seneca County is a priority and these types of trainings are an excellent opportunity to engage the entire Seneca County community. “Talk Saves Lives is a great starting point for those who want to know more and how to help those around them, but aren’t sure how best to do that.”
