Van Buren Community Mental Health is spreading the word about resources available in the community to help those who are struggling with thoughts of suicide.
Speaking to the South Haven City Council this week, suicide prevention coalition coordinator Ashley Walker said surveys have shown suicide is a threat to all demographics in the county.
“About 15% of our students in Van Buren County in 9th and 11th grade have reported having thoughts of suicide,” Walker said. “So this is something that is affecting adults, but also really affecting youth.”
Walker said Van Buren Mental Health promotes crisis intervention programs and offers youth screenings.
“Our youth intervention screener actually goes into the home and does the screenings in the home with youth and their parents or caregivers. She can also go to school if that’s more convenient.”
The screeners will make a recommendation on the best course of action once they’ve spoken to a youth.
Walker said the coalition offers suicide prevention training to the whole community, giving anyone the tools they need to provide a sort of “mental health first aid” to someone in crisis. She also noted the national 988 hotline is available to everyone 24/7. Walker said even if you just want to talk to someone, 988 is now there to offer a helping hand.
You can learn more about Van Buren Community Mental Health right here.
