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For most people, suicide is a subject too uncomfortable to discuss. Add the "it won't happen to anyone close to me" factor, and it's no wonder that suicide is largely ignored as a leading cause of death in the United States. According to a 2000 National Vital Statistics report, every 43 seconds somebody attempts suicide. Every 18 minutes somebody dies by suicide.
Deaths from suicide are preventable. Recognizing the often subtle danger signs from a friend or family member in trouble is important, and taking immediate and appropriate action is key. But few people know the signs, what to do about it, or where to find help.
In order to address this issue, the See A New Sun Foundation, or SANS Foundation was formed. The mission of SANS is to raise awareness of suicide prevention information and counseling resources
News and Upcoming Events
Care of the Suicidal Person: Clergy Collaborations Conference
This will be a collaborative training with area pastors, mental health professionals, and other community caregivers to consider important areas of care for suidical individuals. Sponsored by the Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary Counseling Department with support fromt he Ockenga Institute. April 24, 2009, 9:00 am to noon, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Kaiser Chapel, South Hamilton, MA 01982. Please register at (978) 646-4105 or bprizio@gcts.edu
Annual Massachusetts Suicide Prevention Conference - May 19-20
Connecting Communities, Sustaining Hope, Saving Lives: Suicide Prevention Across the Lifespan - This two day conference consists of over 30 suicide prevention workshops designed to assist a broad range of constituents, including public and mental health professionals, community organizations, school personnel, law enforcement, and special populations advocates, in the prevention of self-injurious and suicidal behavior across the lifespan.
Dates :Tuesday, May 19, 2009 & Wednesday May 20, 2009
Place: Sturbridge Host Hotel and Conference Center, Sturbridge, Massachusetts
Brochure and Registration to follow
For more information, please contact Janice Ventre at Janice.Ventre@state.ma.us. See A New Sun Receives MCSP Leadership Award
See a New Sun Founder Barbara Whitcomb was recognized for her work in suicide prevention with a Leadership Award from the Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention at the 10th annual State House Day on February 9, 2009. See more pictures here.
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