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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
Upcoming Events
Samaritans Annual SafePlace Memorial Service
This healing and wonderfully powerful evening allows us to come together as a community to remember our friends and family we have lost to suicide. It is an opportunity to reconnect, support one another, and share memories. The service is interdenominational and all are invited to participate in any manner that feels comfortable. You can read a poem or a letter, play a song, tell a story, or simply sit among friends and be a part of this very beautiful and important (yet often unseen) community. Whether or not you have ever participated in a Samaritans SafePlace meeting, especially if you have personally been touched by suicide, you are welcome to attend this free event. Sunday, January 11, 2009, 6:00-8:00pm. Reception to follow. First Unitarian Universalist Church, 630 Mass Ave, Arlington Center. Please Respond by January 2nd by emailing kkates@samaritanshope.org
Frameworks Suicide Prevention Training
If you would like to better understand the Frameworks project, how to recognize someone at risk of suicide, and how to connect that person with appropriate help please join us for this free training. Thursday, January 15, 2009, 10:00 am to 1:30 pm, Haverhill Public Library, Haverhill, MA. RSVP to Debbie at (978) 688-0030 or dhelms@familyserviceinc.com
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