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McLean Hospital Sponsors National Stop a Suicide Today Town Hall

Highlights:

On Wednesday, October 21, at 11am, Stop a Suicide Today will host the National Stop a Suicide Today Town Hall. Held in collaboration with the American Psychiatric Association, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and McLean Hospital, the virtual event will feature talks by leading experts on America’s rising suicide rate, stigma, safety, the impact of COVID-19, and more.

The event was created by McLean Hospital psychiatrist Douglas Jacobs, MD, who has spent his career focused on educating people about suicide prevention.

“With the increased rates of depression, anxiety, and isolation due to COVID-19, it is critical for us to talk about suicide, become familiar with its warning signs, and know how and when to reach out for help for ourselves, our friends, and loved ones,” said Jacobs. “This Town Hall is intended to open up the dialogue in an honest way. No one likes or wants to discuss suicide, but it is a topic that we cannot be afraid to address because talking about it allows those who are at risk to get help and thus save a life.”

The town hall will focus on the growing problem of suicide in the U.S. According to Stop a Suicide Today, almost 50,000 people die from suicide in America each year, and the country’s suicide rate has grown by 35% over the past 20 years.

Featured speakers will discuss ways to safeguard mental health and support those struggling with mental illness. The town hall will also address risks and warning signs and offer advice on having “a conversation with loved ones to help prevent suicide.”

A recording of the virtual town hall and other resources will available through the Stop a Suicide Today website. The town hall is offered free of charge.

Link to live event: National Stop a Suicide Today Town Hall