Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
Peace River and area residents will be joining together to discuss suicide and its aftereffects at this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day gathering at Riverfront Park.
The event will be held on Sept. 10 and is a collaborative effort between the Town of Peace River, Peace River and Northern Sunrise Family and Community Services, Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention, Community Helpers Program, Recovery Alberta, and Aspenroad Resources.
“Suicide is a very lonely epidemic,” says Peace River FCSS Director Tamara Brunham.
“Talking about prevention is a step in the right direction and the Centre for Suicide Prevention has highlighted the quote “Change the narrative” – talking about suicide does not increase the risk of suicide so we are hosting an event to do just that.”
The event will offer the opportunity for people to check out local agencies and businesses that offer life promoting services, mental health resources, and community supports.
The event starts at 5 pm and runs until 8 pm, with pizza being generously donated by Domino’s Pizza.
“Suicide is preventable and as we grow, we learn how to keep ourselves safe in many different instances,” says Brunham.
“Thoughts of suicide can occur in times of crisis or depression. To keep ourselves and others safe it’s important to not shy away from the tools and resources that potentially could save a life.”
Live entertainment will be provided by Jenna Loewen and True Emotion Dad’s Laverne Friesen will be speaking.
Laverne is a local Mental Health Advocate and creator/host of the podcast True Emotion Dad.
Laverne is passionate about raising awareness on mental health stigma through speaking and sharing his story.
“Similar to last year, we will have a bingo style activity,” she says.
“Each resource will be listed on a bingo card, participants collect a stamp from each table to fill a bingo card, once filled they can be entered to win a draw prize. There will be a meal, entertainment, positive messaging, resources and supports.”
Brunham urges everyone to attend to become informed of the resources in the community to help promote positive mental health and to help facilitate suicide prevention.
“If you are contemplating suicide, reach out,” she exclaims. “Call or text 988. If you are feeling safe and want to learn more about how to help yourself, come and meet those helping people in our community. You will find resources and people who care.”
Brunham says this event is a supportive gathering of people who understand suicide and the pain involved. There will be an honor song and a vigil to remember those lost to suicide.