The following information is from the Minnesota Department of Health. Please follow Meinders Community Library on Facebook or subscribe to our website, meinderslibrary.com, as I will be posting additional information and resources throughout the month.
It is September, and that means the start of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Although mental health and suicide prevention is important to address year-round, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month provides a dedicated time for people, organizations, and communities to join their voices and share that there is hope, help is available, and healing is possible.
This year’s theme is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” and calls to start the conversation. The aim of the theme is to raise awareness about the importance of changing the narrative surrounding mental health and suicide. Changing the narrative on how we perceive and talk about mental health and suicide requires systemic change. To make change happen, we will need to shift our culture from silence and stigma to encouragement, understanding and support.
Start the conversation about mental health support resources.
- Talking with someone about your thoughts and feelings can save your life. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in need of emotional and mental health support. If you or someone you know needs support now, reach out to the 988 Lifeline by calling or texting 9-8-8 or use the 988 online chat feature.
- Warm lines and peer support can be valuable for those who are managing stress. You do not need to be in immediate crisis to call the warm line. Anyone seeking support may call the Peer Support Connection Warm Line of Minnesota at 1-844-739-6369, from 5pm to 9am. For more information, visit: Wellness in the Woods: Transforming Wellness into Reality. Mental Health Minnesota also offers a Warm Line. Their services are available 7 days a week, from 9am to 9pm. Call 1-855-927-6546 or text the word “Support” to 85511.
- Support groups can help us see that there are others with similar situations and experiences to our own. These groups can help members feel connected and provide peer support from those who understand. To find a list of support groups, visit NAMI Minnesota or Mental Health America.
Meinders Community Library will be host to a Peer Pop Up with Wellness in the Woods. Individuals will have the opportunity to receive completely free, absolutely confidential peer support from one of their trained peer support specialists. Beginning Thursday, October 24th, and every 4th Thursday each month, a Wellness in the Woods representative will be available at the library from 4pm-6pm. Watch for more information in the coming weeks.
Until next time, stay happy, healthy, and safe! ~Sally~