NAMI Sauk Area (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is offering support to those in need, and educating communities. This month, they will highlight the importance of suicide prevention and provide critical resources. NAMI Sauk Area is actively engaged in several initiatives to support and educate the community this September.
Suicide is a major public health concern. In 2022, over 48,000 Americans died by suicide, making it the 12th leading cause of death in the U.S. Recognizing warning signs, such as persistent feelings of hopelessness, social withdrawal, increased substance use, giving away possessions, and verbal cues of suicidal thoughts, is crucial.
On Tuesday, September 17th, NAMI Sauk Area will host a presentation called “Mental Illness & Hospitalizations: What Families Should Know” at Rooted Wellness in Sterling. Speakers Amy Meyer, CGH Behavioral Unit, and Mary Thormahlen, NAMI In Our Own Voice presenter, will provide insights on hospitalization and suicidal ideation for loved ones.
The organization will be hosting a suicideTALK presentation by Jeff Hippen during the Survivors of Suicide Support Group on Thursday, September 26th at 6:30 p.m., and the presentation is open to the public. This presentation aims to end the stigma around suicide and help people understand it better. The event will take place at 300 W. South St., Morrison.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 10-14-year-olds and the third leading cause among 15-24-year-olds. NAMI Sauk Area is committed to raising awareness and preventing youth suicide. They will be distributing silicone bracelets, bookmarks, and informational resources to 7,000 high school students across Whiteside, Lee, Ogle, and Carroll Counties. This initiative is aimed at increasing awareness of the 988 Lifeline during Suicide Prevention Awareness Week and ensuring that young people have access to important information about mental health and support services.
Through a grant for NAMI Illinois Youth and Young Adult Mental Health Collaborative, NAMI Sauk Area will be hosting a state training for NAMI “Ending the Silence” at Rooted Wellness in Sterling on September 28-29 (with applications due 9/16). NAMI Sauk Area is looking for people to take the training to teach the course at local high schools. We are also looking for young adults to help describe their journey from mental illness to recovery. Ending the Silence is a free, evidence-based, 50-minute session designed for middle and high school students. Your students will learn about mental health conditions through a brief presentation, short videos, and personal testimony from a young adult who describes their journey to recovery.
One of the main focuses of this year’s awareness campaign is to promote the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Launched in July 2022, 988 is a free, confidential, 24/7 hotline that provides immediate support to individuals in crisis or those who are concerned about someone else. By calling or texting 988, individuals can connect with trained crisis counselors who offer emotional support, crisis intervention, and resources for ongoing help. The establishment of 988 represents a significant improvement in making mental health crisis intervention more accessible and effective.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has designated September 8th as 988 Day, further emphasizing the importance of the 988 Lifeline and encouraging communities to spread the word about this vital resource.
As Suicide Prevention Awareness Month unfolds, NAMI Sauk Area is committed to raising awareness, providing educational resources, and nurturing a supportive community for those impacted by mental health challenges. By uniting and staying informed, we can all play a part in preventing suicide and promoting mental health wellness. Find more information at namisaukarea.org.
