UMaine Machias hosting campuswide events for National Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month

UMaine Machias hosting campuswide events for National Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month

In recognition of National Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, the University of Maine at Machias will host multiple campuswide events to raise awareness and support for people affected by suicide and suicidal ideation.

"We can all help save a life by listening and developing a connection with someone who is contemplating suicide," said Stacey Cherry, a licensed therapist at UMaine Machias." That connection is the bridge to needed resources. Anyone can help save a life."

The month kicks off with a suicide prevention presentation/discussion hosted by Cherry, at 2 p.m. on Sept. 5 in Torrey Hall, room 234.

During World Suicide Prevention Day on Sept. 10, there will be a candlelight vigil on the mall in front of Merrill Library at 8 p.m.

During the annual Out of the Darkness Walk on Sept. 26, UMaine Machias will host its campuswide walk beginning at 2 p.m. in front of the Performing Arts Center. Participants are encouraged to wear T-shirts and/or make signs in support of suicide awareness and prevention.

UMaine Machias will also have multiple memorials at the foot of College Hill throughout the month, including pinwheels representing each Maine life lost to suicide and the Suicide Memorial/Support Awareness and Prevention Tree. At the tree, students, faculty, staff and community members may use the provided materials at the tree to write supportive messages or to remember a loved one who died by suicide.

For more information about these events or to request reasonable accommodation, call 207.255.1343. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, call Maine Crisis Services, 1.888.568.1112, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or send a chat to 988lifeline.org.