Building Resilience: A Call to Action for Suicide Prevention
In this podcast episode of Bridging the Gap, hosted by Utah Behavior Services, we sat down with Mindy Deeter and Allison Phillips to discuss the mission of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and the significance of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or are concerned about someone or a loved one, help is available. Call 988 for free and confidential emotional support and crisis counselling, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, across the United States.
The conversation covers the core objectives of AFSP, which include education, advocacy, and research in the fight against suicide. Mindy shares her personal story of losing her best friend to suicide and how that experience led her to become a passionate advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. The episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing warning signs, having open discussions about suicidal thoughts, and removing the stigma that often surrounds these conversations.
Mindy and Allison explain how critical it is to ask direct questions like, “Are you thinking about suicide?” to help individuals in crisis. They discuss the need for family involvement in the support process and the essential role of mental health resources, such as the newly launched 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The 988 Lifeline is available 24/7, offering free and confidential support for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or for loved ones seeking guidance.
Throughout the episode, the importance of safety plans is highlighted as a practical tool to help individuals navigate times of crisis. These personalized plans empower individuals to identify coping strategies and manage their mental health proactively.
The episode concludes with a discussion on the AFSP’s Out of the Darkness Community Walks, events that raise awareness and bring communities together to support those affected by suicide. This year, Utah Behavior Services will sponsor walks in Salt Lake, Brigham City, and Cedar City, reinforcing their commitment to suicide prevention.
By promoting open conversations, encouraging the use of safety plans, and advocating for access to resources like the 988 Lifeline, Utah Behavior Services is dedicated to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and preventing suicide. The Out of Darkness walks further foster a sense of community and support for survivors, advocates, and those working to prevent future tragedies.
