By Forum Staff
State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) next week is hosting a special virtual suicide prevention education event in commemoration of September as Suicide Prevention Month.
The event will take place via zoom on Monday, Sept. 15, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The Meeting ID is 853 3433 4545 and the Passcode is 6p4ijR. It will feature representatives from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Dr. Clancy Martin, author, professor and survivor of multiple suicide attempts.
Since 1987, the AFSP has saved lives and brought hope to those affected by suicide through research funding, education, and advocacy. It is a national nonprofit with local chapters and volunteers, partnering across schools, workplaces, healthcare, and law enforcement.
Courtesy of AFSP
Reps from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention will also address the virtual audience.
The other keynote speaker, Dr. Clancy Martin is the author of the book, “How Not to Kill Yourself: A Portrait of the Suicidal Mind,” and teaches Philosophy at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. In the powerful memoir, Martin details his own experiences with depression, substance abuse and suicide while also exploring the philosophy of suicide. During the presentation, Martin will describe how he managed his own suicidal ideations and depression through first-hand gripping accounts.
To ensure privacy, attendees of the zoom meeting do not have to turn their camera on or show their face. They can ask questions by typing them into the chat box or by virtually raising their hand during the Q&A portion of the event and speaking their question vocally.
The presentation aims to raise awareness, including understanding risk factors, identifying warning signs and reducing stigma. Open conversations about mental health often encourage those in need of help without shame or fear. The event will also improve access to resources by identifying prevention strategies such as the 988 hotline and explaining how they work.
Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the US. In 2023, 49,316, Americans died by suicide. In 2023, there were an estimated 1.5 million suicide attempts.
“Education is the first line of defense against suicide,” Addabbo said. “Through this virtual event, we’ll highlight essential tools—hotlines, local resources, and proven programs—so individuals know where to turn and how to help a friend, a classmate, or a neighbor in need.”
