The Florida Panhandle Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is excited to announce a suicide prevention training available to the South Walton communit. All trainings are free of charge and open to the public. The Chapter recommends trainings for those 18 and older.

“Our goal is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide,” said Jessica Roberts, Board Chair of AFSP Florida Panhandle Chapter. “One of the main ways we can do this and serve our community is to help educate anyone and everyone we can about suicide and prevention. Suicide is preventable and together we can create a culture that’s smart about mental health. We’ll save lives, and vastly improve the lives of many more.”

Suicide is the 8th leading cause of death in the state of Florida and nearly four times as many people died by suicide in Florida in 2017 than in alcohol related motor vehicle accidents. Suicide takes more lives in the U.S. than homicide, war, and natural disasters combined.

“These high numbers are one of many reasons that it is important to talk about suicide like any other cause of death. The more we talk, the less stigmatized the idea that we all face struggles and need support becomes,” adds Roberts.

Two trainings will be made available to the public at different locations In February and March.

The Volunteer Orientation is the “AFSP 101” which provides an introduction to the organization at the national and local level as well as training new volunteers interested in working with the nonprofit group.

• Thursday, February 6, 5:30-6:30pm

Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach.

• Saturday, March 28, 2-3pm

Bridgeway Center, 137 Hospital Dr NE, Fort Walton Beach.

“More Than Sad: Suicide Prevention for Parents” is part of a family of programs that has taught over a million students, parents, and educators how to be smart about mental health. Parents will learn how to recognize signs of depression and other mental health problems, initiate a conversation with their child, and get him or her help. This presentation is open to the public, not just parents, but will focus on the perspective of the parent.

• Thursday, February 6, 6:30-7:30pm

Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach.

For more information and to RSVP for any of the sessions, please email Sarah Clark at sclark@afsp.org

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