On Friday, March 11, 2016, non profit Tykes & Teens will partner with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and The Children’s Services Council of Martin County to host SafeTALK, a free training designed to help community members and professionals recognize the signs and symptoms of suicide, and direct those at risk to life saving resources. The training will be held at the Indian River State College Chastain Campus at 2400 SE Salerno Road in Stuart. Participants can choose from two sessions, 9:30 AM - noon or 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM.
“People tend to think that Martin County doesn’t have many residents in mental health crisis. They are often surprised to hear that Martin County ranks very high in the state of Florida for suicides, and has a significantly higher number of suicides per capita annually than surrounding counties including St. Lucie, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and Miami Dade,” said Jeffrey Shearer, ACSW, LCSW, CAP, Executive Director of Tykes & Teens.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide, through education and community programs, developing suicide prevention through research and advocacy, and providing support for those affected by suicide.
“While suicide is a complex health issue, AFSP believes it is preventable. When we train members of our community to become alert to the warning signs that someone is considering suicide, and teach them how to connect those people with life-saving resources, then together we can save a life. It starts right here in our backyard with neighbors helping and caring about neighbors.,’” said Jill Harrington, AFSP Florida Southeast & Florida Southwest Chapters Area Director. Learn more about AFSP at www.afsp.org.
The training is open to anyone age 15 and older. Pre registration is required by visiting www.tykesandteens.org or calling Dr. Agnieszka Marshall at 772-220-3439.
