LEARNING & HEALING ACROSS THE LIFESPAN

Words are powerful. Well intended conversations can often be hurtful rather than helpful; but when we know better, we do better.  The first step in preventing suicide is knowing how to speak safely. 

Suicide is often the 7-letter unmentionable word, but not saying it doesn’t make it go away and saying it doesn’t make it happen. We must have safe, honest and meaningful conversations while saying the word - SUICIDE - if we want to save lives from this preventable death. 

The signs of suicide crises are around us and it is our responsibility to know how to recognize, respond and react appropriately. It is vital to identify individuals showing signs of risk, determine if suicide is present and apply steps to mitigate the risk of fatality. 

Helping people find their ways to stay alive and addressing the means or method they would potentially use to end their life - can be a difficult, complicated and uncomfortable conversation. However it is 100% necessary. Safety Plans and access to Lethal Means/Method can be the difference between life and death.

Suicide prevention is the responsibility of EVERY one and intervening with suicide is within the capability of ANY one. Recognizing when someone may be at risk of suicide and working with them to turn towards safety can save a life. Suicide is preventable when we know what to do. 

An upstream prevention approach promotes a healthy culture of community and connectedness while contributing to a holistic lifestyle, regardless of one’s circumstances. Building on 12 pillars and understanding the brain as it applies to wellness of mind, body and spirit increases protective and resilience factors.   

Without regard for themselves, their own fears, anxieties and needs - many unsung heroes respond to our crises every day on the front lines. Prevention, intervention, postvention and support for de-escalation, can save the lives of the individuals who show up to save the lives of others daily. 

Faith and spirituality is our confidence and trust in something bigger than ourselves. Our foundational beliefs are often where we  seek to find help, support and solace when unbearable life experiences happen. Finding peace through our faith can be a powerful source of strength and comfort to carry us during trials and tribulations. 

Trauma is stored as pain in our body; it manifests physically and emotionally. When life comes at us sideways,turning us upside down and inside out, there are things we can do to reset our mind, body and spirit.  Unlocking tissue memory promotes the natural healing and recovery process. Our body and mind tells us what to do to heal.