The Florida Panhandle Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is excited to announce a series of free, public suicide prevention trainings available to the community – all across the Panhandle. The Chapter recommends trainings for those 18 and older.
“Our goal is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide,” said Jessica Roberts, Board Chair of AFSP Florida Panhandle Chapter. “One of the main ways we can do this and serve our community is to help educate anyone and everyone we can about suicide and prevention. Suicide is preventable and together we can create a culture that’s smart about mental health. We’ll save lives, and vastly improve the lives of many more.”
Suicide is the 8th leading cause of death in the state of Florida and nearly four times as many people died by suicide in Florida in 2017 than in alcohol related motor vehicle accidents. Suicide takes more lives in the U.S. than homicide, war, and natural disasters combined.
“These high numbers are one of many reasons that it is important to talk about suicide like any other cause of death. The more we talk, the less stigmatized the idea that we all face struggles and need support becomes,” adds Jessica.
The Volunteer Orientation is the “AFSP 101” which provides an introduction to the organization at the national and local level as well as training new volunteers interested in working with the nonprofit group.
Saturday, March 28, 2-3 p.m.
Bridgeway Center, 137 Hospital Dr. NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL
The “Talk Saves Lives” presentation covers what we know about this leading cause of death, the most up-to-date research on prevention, and what we can all do to fight suicide. Participants will learn the common risk factors for suicide, how to spot the warning signs in others, and how to keep ourselves, our loved ones and those in our community safe.
Saturday, March 28, 3 to 4 p.m.
Bridgeway Center, 137 Hospital Dr. NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL
Stay up-to-date on events, trainings, and more by following on Facebook or visiting AFSP.org/Panhandle.
For more information and to RSVP for any of the sessions, please email Sarah Clark at sclark@afsp.org.
