This week's episode features two very special guests from the Butler County Suicide Coalition, Amy Cirelli and Lena Southworth. These two incredible women volunteer their time and services to help reduce suicides through education, resources, and support.
We start off the episode by learning more about what is the Butler County Suicide Coalition and how people can get involved. Amy shares with us about QPR Training (Question, Persuade, Refer) and how this two-hour training is free for those wanting to participate. Participants will learn:
-Myths and Facts about suicide
-How to recognize the signs and potential signs of suicide
-How to ask Questions to assess the situation
-How to persuade the person to stay alive long enough to get help
-How to refer them to a professional for help to get them through the crisis
*For more information or if you'd like to take part in a QPR Training Session, please contact Amy Cirelli by phone at 724-284-5114 or by email: youmatterbutler@gmail.com
Lena takes us through the importance of September, Suicide Awareness Prevention Month. There will be two key events held in Butler to remember those we've lost. The first event will be the Suicide Awareness Remembrance Rally on September 7th at 5:00 pm. This will be held at Diamond Park in downtown Butler, PA. This is open to everyone and offers a time of support and remembrance for our community. Please contact Amy Cirelli by phone at 724-284-5114 or by email: youmatterbutler@gmail.com if interested in participating.
The other event will be held in partnership with the Butler VA Healthcare on September 20th at 5:30 pm. A showing of The Ripple Effect will be shown at the Succop Theater at Butler County Community College. For more information Session, please contact Amy Cirelli by phone at 724-284-5114 or by email: youmatterbutler@gmail.com
We end the show talking about all of the ways people can reach out if in need of help or resources. Here is the full list if you or someone you know needs help:
Butler County Crisis:
1-800-292-3866 or Text #63288
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
988 *NEW*
Or Call 1-800-273-8255
Text: 988
Veteran's Crisis Line:
1-800-273-8255 and press 1
Text: 838255
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ Youth)
1-866-488-7386
Text: "START" to 678678
Thank you to Amy and Lena for everything they shared and we look forward to attending their events in September!