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By WVUA 23 Digital Reporter Tony Cortes
The Black Women’s Mental Health Institute and the Black Belt Community Foundation will host the Black Belt Suicide Awareness and Prevention Summit at Stillman College on Saturday, Jan. 27, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This free event is open to the public. Participants will connect to resources, participate in mindfulness exercises, and hear from national speakers. They will also have the opportunity for informational meetings with counselors.
Dr. Nadia Richardson, Founder of the Black Women’s Mental Health Institute, will present a welcome to open the summit.
“There’s a lack of information in regards to how to identify symptoms of suicide,” said Richardson. “There’s a need for more education on how to support someone who has suicidal ideation.”
When combined with economic, educational, and environmental disparities, Black youth and families need integrative mental health support to offset the threat of suicide.
The Black Women’s Mental Health Institute and the Black Belt Community Foundation seek to build support and awareness through the Black Belt Suicide Awareness and Prevention Summit. Loses like 9-year-old Madison Whittsett, 9-year-old McKenzie Adams, and 15-year-old Nigel Shelby are reminders that suicide is a real threat to Alabama youth.
The event is also a gentle reminder that self-care is as important as taking of others. There will be a yoga instructor, a massage booth and a food truck for people to get something to eat. There will be door prizes and giveaways while supplies last.
“We’re hoping with this event, we bring awareness, support, and comfort to people who may be managing those concerns or maybe have lost someone to suicide,” said Richardson.
For more information or to register, visit the Black Women’s Mental Health Institute website.
Notable speakers include advocates and suicide attempt survivors.
T-Kea Blackman, MPS, CPRS
Executive Director & Co-Founder
Black People Die by Suicide Too
JacQuan Winters
Founder,
The Kristen Amerson Youth Foundation
Dr. Ashley N. Nash
Founder
Trauma; Thrived
There will also be informational tables and booths from community organizations such as:
Alabama Department of Mental Health
Tuscaloosa Safe Place
Kristen Amerson Youth Foundation
Black Belt Community Foundation
Children’s of Alabama Psychiatric Intake Response Center
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