Leonard Parker Pool Institute for Health Highlights Suicide Prevention
Seeing someone struggling with mental health issues and possibly considering suicide can make you feel helpless. Most of us want to reach out but worry about what to say or do, and perhaps fearing we’ll make it worse.
During Mental Health Awareness Month in May, Leonard Parker Pool Institute for Health (LPPIH) contributed to the national conversation by hosting a Pool Speaker Series event on May 16. LPPIH welcomed Christopher Epperson, Executive Director at Soul Shop,™ who presented a workshop on framing conversations to effectively talk about suicide with those who may be at-risk or considering suicide.
A national organization, Soul Shop describes its mission as “equipping faith community leaders and congregations with the tools and knowledge to effectively minister to individuals and families impacted by suicide, offering compassionate support, guidance and hope.” The group is dedicated to walking alongside those impacted by suicide, fostering hope and building meaningful connections that bring healing and support.
Epperson led the training session at LPPIH with local community partners based on the organization’s vision of a world where no one loses hope and no one feels alone. The session included the introduction of a response model designed to help keep individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts safe.
“Suicide is a sensitive topic and sheds light on the other aspect of those left behind by a suicide,” says Samantha Shaak, LPPIH Executive Director. “Losing a loved one impacts many. We recognize that asking someone how they are doing after such a loss is another difficult conversation. We see education about suicide prevention and its aftermath as an important training investment that deepens our ability to cultivate a sense of belonging and mental well-being in our communities.”
The Soul Shop™ for Communities training, designed for faith-based groups as well as community groups and schools, raises awareness about suicide and explores actionable steps to reduce risks. It is ideal for parents, police officers, nurses, teachers and concerned citizens who want to learn how to address the topic of suicide, understand its prevalence in their community and become engaged in the solution.
The May 16 event was co-sponsored by Lehigh Valley Health Network and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Eastern PA chapter.
The following day, Epperson provided a deeper, day-long workshop to local faith-based leaders on how to cultivate a soul-safe culture within their congregations. The day equipped participants to address suicide as a regular aspect of their life and work. LPPIH leaders expressed their appreciation to Epperson and Soul Shop as well as everyone willing to participate in this important conversation.