White River Health System (WRHS) and the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) are collaborating to offer training and education on a sensitive, yet important topic: suicide. The suicide prevention training and awareness class will be presented by Maggie Beshears, licensed professional counselor, director of counseling at UACCB, and Lindsey Bowers, MRC (Master of Rehabilitation Counseling), community education coordinator for mental health at WRHS, on Feb. 24, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., in the Independence Hall Auditorium at UACCB.
This presentation will cover the signs and symptoms associated with depression and anxiety, suicide myths, and recognizing the warning signs and risk factors associated with individuals facing mental health challenges that may lead to suicidal thinking and behaviors.
The goal is to teach participants how to appropriately and effectively approach a family member or friend who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts.
According to 2019 statistics from the Centers for Disease Control (obtained in February 2021), more than 47,500 Americans died by suicide. More than 1.3 million suicide attempts were made that same year. Suicide prevention trainings, education, and research will prevent the untimely deaths of thousands of Americans each year.
To pre-register for the class, visit here.
If you have thoughts of suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, call the Lifeline network’s 24/7 line at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or you can visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org and chat with an available professional.
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