The Rotary Club of Mount Joy, Milanof-Schock Library and MHA of Lancaster County created three educational events to inspire hope in the fight against the national suicide epidemic. Michael Stevens, from Lancaster Behavioral Health Hospital spoke at the regular Tuesday, September 10th luncheon meeting of the Club. Stevens discussed their new, local services for Lancaster County residents with mental health issues.

 

A suicide awareness and prevention panel discussion and candlelight vigil was held at Milanof-Schock Library, Mount Joy on Wednesday, September 11. On Saturday, September 14 the Club sponsored the Walk to Inspire Hope. Participants strolled through Mount Joy with other concerned community members to learn more about suicide and the warning signs.

 

The entire community was invited to the Wednesday and Saturday events and encouraged to find information and inspiration to help those struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, and abuse.

 

Staff and volunteers from Mental Health America of Lancaster, Hospice’s Pathways Center for Grief and Loss, NAMI, the Lancaster Behavioral Health Hospital, and Lancaster Compeer participated at both events bringing personal experiences, important information, and realistic suggestions on how to help those in need. The task of those present was to become more aware of the warning signs and resources to help combat this epidemic.

 

The Walk to Inspire Hope on September 14 began at 9 AM. At Rotary Park, participants bore witness to 67 pairs of empty shoes. The shoes represented the lives lost to completed suicides in Lancaster County in 2018. The Suicide Prevention Empowerment Tree was also present for the community to make personal commitments to reach out to people in need of support and hope.

 

A suicide awareness and prevention display, and the Empowerment Tree will be at Milanof-Schock Library for the month of September. Find suicide prevention resource materials and be inspired to help those who are struggling.