Suicide is a hard topic to grapple, yet is one that we cannot afford to ignore or sweep aside. I am very grateful for the recent meeting that I had with Laura Evans, Co-Chair of the Healthy Kent County Suicide Prevention Coalition, and her valuable insights and resources she shared with me. With holidays right behind us, and the winter doldrums of January and February ahead, it is easy to get bogged down in the negative aspects of life. Most of us are able to bounce back, others not so easily.
The most important thing I learned from my meeting with Laura is that suicide is preventable if you know the warning signs. If you think that someone close to you may be at risk or would like to educate yourself for the future, Creston has the information on hand for your convenience.   Lastly, if you or someone you know has been effected by suicide and is struggling with that loss the support group “West Michigan Survivors of Suicide†is there to help.
The national Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK.
You can also visit the website for West Michigan Survivors of Suicide Support Group (SOS) at: www.angelfire.com/mi2/westmisos
A PDF of the Kent County Mental Health Resource Card is also attached.
